Major Winter Storm Sweeps Across the Central U.S.
A major, disruptive winter storm is sweeping across the central U.S., bringing with it a dreaded combination of snow, ice, and plunging temperatures.
Snow and Ice in the Forecast
By Saturday evening, widespread heavy snow was likely between central Kansas and Indiana, especially along and north of Interstate 70. Part of the interstate was closed in central Kansas by the afternoon. Total snow and sleet accumulations for parts of Kansas and northern Missouri were predicted to be as high as 14 inches (35.6 centimeters).
The storm was forecast to move then into the Ohio Valley, with severe travel disruptions expected. It will reach the Mid-Atlantic states on Sunday into Monday, with a hard freeze even expected as far south as Florida.
Car Wrecks Start as Storm Hits
A fire truck, several tractor-trailers, and passenger vehicles overturned west of Salina, Kansas. Rigs also jackknifed and went into ditches, state Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner said.
Air Travel Also Was Snarled
The Kansas City International Airport temporarily halted flight operations in the afternoon due to ice. Dozens of flights were delayed, including a charter jet transporting the Kansas City Chiefs, before the runways reopened.
Getting Ready to Ride Out the Storm
Stores in Wichita were filled with shoppers stocking up on groceries in advance of the storm, and warming centers opened in churches and libraries.
Temperatures Dip, though No Records Break
Starting Monday, the eastern two-thirds of the country will experience dangerous, bone-chilling cold and wind chills, forecasters said. Temperatures could be 12 to 25 degrees (7 to 14 degrees Celsius) below normal as the polar vortex stretches down from the high Arctic.
Disruptions Extend Southward
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency Friday evening ahead of the storm and encouraged residents to vote early on Saturday ahead of the state’s special elections Tuesday.
Conclusion
The major winter storm sweeping across the central U.S. has brought a combination of snow, ice, and plunging temperatures, causing travel disruptions and power outages. The storm has affected multiple states, with severe weather conditions expected to continue into the weekend.
FAQs
Q: What is the current weather situation in the affected areas?
A: The storm is bringing a combination of snow, ice, and plunging temperatures, causing travel disruptions and power outages.
Q: Which states are affected?
A: Kansas, Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and several other Mid-Atlantic and Southern states.
Q: What is the expected impact on travel?
A: Severe travel disruptions are expected, with some areas experiencing blizzard conditions and others experiencing icy roads and low visibility.
Q: Are there any power outages reported?
A: Yes, power outages have been reported in some areas, with the potential for more outages as the storm continues to move south.
Q: What is the current weather forecast?
A: The storm is expected to continue moving into the weekend, bringing severe weather conditions, including snow, ice, and plunging temperatures, to the affected areas.
