A huge and powerful winter storm is headed to the U.S., bringing potentially severe impacts to six states, prompting officials to issue a Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow, freezing rain, strong winds, and dangerously low wind chills. This winter storm will make winter 2025 one of the most impactful winters on record.
As conditions surrounding travel continue to worsen, temperatures drop, and the risk of power failures increases, millions of people are advised to make immediate preparations. Below, we are providing you with more information regarding the Winter Storm Warning for 6 States in the U.S., with a list of states and precautions.
US Issues Winter Storm Warning
Six states have been issued a warning for winter storms by the National Weather Service (NWS) as a major snowstorm is expected. Areas may experience severe winter storm conditions with forecasted snowfall totals expected to reach one foot or greater in certain areas during this multi-state winter weather event.
Travel conditions likely will be hazardous during this event due to the combination of heavy snow, potentially freezing rain/sleet, along with impacts due to the bitterly cold winds. Additionally, the warnings issued by NWS are part of a larger series of weather alerts across much of the United States.
This is happening due to multiple storms moving through the Midwest, Northeast, both coasts of the United States, and locations in Washington State on the Pacific Coast; therefore, many places throughout the U.S. have also been placed under travel warning categories with advisories and preemptive safety measures being taken in many portions of the Midwestern, Northeastern, and Western Regions of the United States.
How to Stay Prepared and Safe Before, During, and After a Storm?
Here is a list of things you should be aware of so you can prepare to remain safe during a storm and to assist others in their preparation as well. (This is based on specific guidance provided by the National Weather Service and other reputable agencies.)
At Home or at Your Office
- You should have on hand the following important supplies: batteries for your flashlights; a radio (preferably a NOAA radio); extra food and water (preferably non-perishable) First Aid Kit; all medications you may need; and blankets and clothing for warmth.
- You should have a plan for possible power loss by obtaining a backup heating source (i.e., woodstove or safe space heater, as long as you follow the proper safety protocols), a fire extinguisher, working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and a sufficient supply of fuel for these devices.
- If you own a pet or any farm animals, make sure you provide adequate food, water, and shelter from the cold weather.
Travel
- Avoid travelling when the roads are covered with snow and/or ice due to the risk of accidents.
- If you must travel during a storm, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready. Fill your fuel tank to at least half full; carry a winter emergency kit (blanket, warm clothing, bottled water, snacks, flashlights, an ice scraper and a shovel) and take along enough supplies for possible delays due to being stuck in the snow or ice.
- Dress appropriately for cold weather. Wear layers of clothing to keep your body as warm as possible, cover all parts of your body that would otherwise be exposed to the elements (e.g., hat, mittens, scarf), and be sure to keep yourself dry, because wet skin will increase your risk of hypothermia and frostbite.
- Remove snow and ice from all walkways, exhaust pipes from vehicles and vent pipes on roofs — ensure all vents for your heating and/or ventilation system are not blocked (especially if using an alternative heating system).
General Safety
- Stay informed about localised weather information and National Weather Service (NWS) weather alerts and warnings, because conditions can change rapidly.
- Check on your neighbours, friends and family, particularly the elderly and other vulnerable people, who may need assistance or help with obtaining supplies.
- If you are using an alternative heating source, be sure to have adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide build-up in your home; never use an oven or grill to heat your home.
- Limit the amount of time you spend outside. Avoid excessive physical activity (e.g. heavy snow shovelling and lifting) that puts excessive strain on your heart (especially when combined with the cold weather conditions).
Recent News and Updates
Residents of Alaska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Wyoming will receive alerts regarding winter storms. Snow accumulations may exceed 10 inches in some locations; combined with strong winds (as high as 65 mph) in certain areas, these conditions have been deemed potentially “life-threatening” for unprotected individuals by many sources.
Newsweek
Snow, accompanied by high winds, can create blowing snow, resulting in low visibility and hazardous road conditions, causing hazardous travel situations across several states. In mountainous and exposed areas, the associated risks are much more significant. The issuance of a winter storm warning indicates an impending or existing winter storm, as this is a much more serious and involved situation than just a “weather advisory.”
FAQ’s On US Issues Winter Storm Warning
- What does a Winter Storm Warning mean?
- A Winter Storm Warning indicates that significant winter weather (e.g., heavy snowfall, high winds, and/or freezing rain) has occurred or is likely to occur in your area within the near future.
- Which states currently have a Winter Storm Warning?
- Winter Storm Warning exists for the following six (6) U.S. states: Alaska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
- How much snow might be experienced in these states?
- Several areas may receive more than 10 inches of snow, plus considerable wind that could make it difficult to see and cause unsafe travel conditions.
- What is the expected duration of the storm?
- Duration varies depending on the region, and the majority of warnings will remain valid for a minimum of 12-48 hours.
