Columbus, OH – A powerful winter storm is sweeping across the Central U.S., Ohio Valley, and Mid-Atlantic, bringing record-breaking cold, dangerous wind chills, and significant snowfall. The storm is expected to continue through Friday, creating hazardous travel conditions and the potential for widespread disruptions.
According to the NOAA NWS Weather Prediction Center, an Arctic air mass is plunging into the Central U.S., with sub-freezing temperatures reaching as far south as the Gulf Coast. The coldest temperatures will be recorded between Tuesday and Friday, with widespread lows below zero across the Plains.
Wind chills of -30°F to -40°F are forecast in the Northern Plains, posing a severe risk of frostbite within minutes. These frigid conditions will extend into parts of Texas, Arkansas, western Tennessee, and Kentucky, making outdoor exposure extremely dangerous.
Heavy snowfall is also expected across the Ohio Valley and parts of the Mid-Atlantic. Moderate-to-heavy snow will develop from Kansas to southern Missouri by Tuesday, leading to treacherous road conditions and travel disruptions. By Wednesday, the storm will intensify as it moves into the Mid-Atlantic, bringing a mix of snow and ice to southern Virginia, the Delmarva Peninsula, and northeastern North Carolina. Freezing rain in these areas could lead to power outages and hazardous driving conditions.
Residents are urged to prepare for extreme cold, limit time outdoors, and check local forecasts for travel advisories. Authorities warn that icy roads, low visibility, and potential power failures could create dangerous conditions throughout the week.
For the latest updates, visit the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies.
