Winter Storm Set to Blanket Parts of US in Decade’s Heaviest Snowfall

A significant winter storm impacted the central U.S. on Sunday, bringing snow, ice, and strong winds across various states. Approximately 63 million people found themselves under winter weather advisories, watches, or warnings, according to the National Weather Service.

This storm is anticipated to deliver the “heaviest snowfall in a decade” to regions primarily in Kansas, Missouri, and parts of Indiana, where up to 14 inches of snow could accumulate. The National Guard was deployed in Indiana to assist stranded motorists as snow covered major routes including parts of Interstate 64 and Interstate 69. Indiana State Police advised against travel due to deteriorating road conditions.

Weather officials reported that blizzard warnings were issued, particularly affecting areas north of Interstate 70. Kansas saw significant snowfall, with some counties already reporting totals exceeding 10 inches. Meanwhile, upstate New York faced lake-effect snow, leading to snowfall accumulation of over three feet.

The storm is expected to shift into the Ohio Valley and reach the Mid-Atlantic, bringing cold temperatures across a broad stretch of the country. A severe freeze may even extend to Florida, according to forecasts.

Travel disruptions escalated quickly as road conditions worsened. Multiple accidents, including overturned vehicles and jackknifed trucks, were reported in Kansas, prompting pleas from officials urging people to remain off the highways. Governors in Missouri and Arkansas declared states of emergency in response to the hazardous conditions.

Air travel faced significant disruptions, with nearly 200 flights canceled at St. Louis Lambert International Airport and more than 20 rail cancellations reported for Amtrak services. The considerable impact on transportation was underscored by Amtrak’s decision to scale back operations amid safety concerns.

As temperatures plummet across the eastern U.S., projections indicate a drop of 12 to 25 degrees below normal. In cities like Chicago and Minneapolis, temperatures hovered around zero, with forecasts predicting continued chilling conditions into the upcoming week. Meteorological experts indicated that a blast of cold air from Canada is responsible for this shift.

In the wake of the storm, many school districts in affected states, including Indiana, Kentucky, and Virginia, announced closures for Monday. Jefferson County Public Schools in Kentucky, serving nearly 100,000 students, canceled classes, marking a traditional snow day without online learning. Officials urged safety as communities brace for the lingering effects of the storm.