Millions to be Impacted by Winter Storm
The first significant winter storm of the year is putting a 2,100-mile swath of the country from the Northwest and Plains through the mid-Atlantic and East Coast at risk, bringing a multitude of life-threatening hazards across major metropolitan areas, including heavy snow and potentially blizzard-like conditions, and crippling ice accretions that could lead to extended power outages. Mike Oravec with the Weather Prediction Center joined LiveNOW from FOX’s Josh Breslow to discuss.
The Kansas City Chiefs were stranded for several hours on Saturday at Kansas City International Airport due to an ice storm that shut down operations. The severe winter weather prevented their chartered jet from departing for their game against the Broncos on Sunday in Denver. The team finally departed after spending about four hours stranded on the tarmac.
Winter Storm Forecast
The winter weather affecting the area on Saturday is part of a much larger system heading through much of the U.S. this weekend and into Monday. Heavy snow with winds that could lead to blizzard conditions hit the Central Plains starting Saturday. The storm will then move into the Ohio Valley on Sunday, where travel disruptions are expected, and to the Mid-Atlantic on Sunday into Monday.
Starting Monday, hundreds of millions of people in the eastern two-thirds of the country will experience dangerous, bone-chilling air and wind chills, forecasters said. Temperatures could be 12 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit colder than normal as the polar vortex stretches down from the high Arctic. A hard freeze is even expected in Florida.
Safety Tips for Shoveling Snow
Stay safe while shoveling snow by following these tips:
* Dress warmly, including a hat, gloves, and scarf
* Stretch and take breaks to avoid fatigue
* Lift correctly, keeping your back straight and lifting with your legs
* Shovel in small amounts, taking breaks to clear your back and shoulders
* Wear crampons or snowshoes on icy surfaces
* Clear walkways and driveways quickly to avoid accumulation
FAQs
Q: What is the current weather forecast for the winter storm?
A: The winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow and potentially blizzard-like conditions to the Central Plains, Ohio Valley, and Mid-Atlantic regions, with temperatures 12 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit colder than normal in the eastern two-thirds of the country.
Q: How many people will be impacted by the winter storm?
A: Hundreds of millions of people in the eastern two-thirds of the country will experience dangerous, bone-chilling air and wind chills.
Q: What are the safety concerns associated with shoveling snow?
A: Shoveling snow can be dangerous, particularly in cold weather. Staying warm, lifting correctly, and taking breaks can help prevent injuries.
Q: How can I stay safe during the winter storm?
A: Dress warmly, stay informed about weather conditions, and take necessary precautions to stay safe while shoveling snow or traveling.
