A massive winter storm is sweeping across several states, expected to last through the weekend, with weather authorities urging residents to prepare and prioritize safety.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings across 12 states, including Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, Texas, New Mexico, Louisiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.Severe winter weather, with snow, ice, and strong winds, is causing perilous travel conditions in several areas. Some warnings will remain in effect through Saturday morning. To keep you informed and prepared, here are the latest updates from the NWS and safety recommendations.
NWS Warnings for Saturday
The NWS has issued a Winter Storm Warning for portions of East Arkansas, North Mississippi, Southeast Missouri, and West Tennessee, effective from 6 p.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Saturday, Central Standard Time (CST). The storm is expected to bring 4 to 6 inches of snow to many areas, with some regions experiencing additional ice.Counties such as Tallahatchie, Yalobusha, Calhoun, Chickasaw, and Monroe may receive up to 2 inches of snow and light ice accumulations of less than one-tenth of an inch. Cities like Bruce, Water Valley, Aberdeen, Amory, and Charleston are likely to experience slippery conditions, particularly on bridges and overpasses
Thursday’s Weather Warnings
Separately, the NWS issued Winter Storm Warnings for parts of West Virginia and nearby areas, which will experience challenging conditions through Thursday at noon, Eastern Standard Time (EST). The storm will bring heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerously low wind chills, making travel difficult and creating safety risks.In Eastern Tucker County, areas like Thomas, Canaan Valley, and Davis could see 4 to 8 inches of snow, with higher totals in elevated areas. Winds gusting up to 40 mph will create wind chills as low as -10°F to -15°F, especially overnight into Thursday morning.In Western Grant and Western Pendleton Counties, up to 4 inches of snow is expected, with gusts reaching 50 mph, creating slick conditions on roads, bridges, and overpasses. Visibility may also drop below 1/4 mile due to blowing snow.Meanwhile, in Northwest Pocahontas, Southeast Randolph, and Southeast Webster Counties, snowfall totals are predicted to reach 4 to 6 inches, with winds gusting up to 45 mph. Unsafe road conditions, falling tree branches, and disruptions to the Thursday morning commute are likely in these areas.
NWS Details for Friday
Difficult travel conditions are expected during the Friday morning and evening commutes, with slick roads, icy surfaces, and reduced visibility making travel hazardous. These impacts may continue into Saturday morning.
“Persons should consider delaying all travel. Motorists should use extreme caution if travel is absolutely necessary,” the NSW stated. If travel cannot be avoided, residents are advised to pack an emergency kit with essentials such as a flashlight, food, water, and warm clothing.Additionally, staying updated on road conditions by calling 5-1-1 is strongly recommended. The NWS has also advised residents to stay indoors during the storm, as it is the safest option. If going outside is unavoidable, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and wear gloves, a scarf, and a hat to prevent frostbite or hypothermia.
The NWS issues a Winter Storm Warning for severe winter weather that is occurring or expected. This includes heavy snow or sleet of 5 inches in 12 hours or 7 inches in 24 hours, or significant ice accumulation that can damage trees and powerlines. Warnings also cover combinations of snow, ice, and wind that create life-threatening conditions.
In western counties like Allegany, Mineral, Grant, Pendleton, and Highland, stricter criteria apply due to local geography, requiring 6 inches in 12 hours or 8 inches in 24 hours.
For less severe but still disruptive conditions, the NWS issues a Winter Weather Advisory, covering 2 to 4 inches of snow, freezing rain, or 1 inch of snow during rush hours in busy areas like Baltimore or Washington, D.C. While not as extreme as a warning, advisories signal conditions that may cause travel delays and other disruptions.
As the winter storm continues to impact multiple regions, residents are urged to stay updated and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
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