What's happened
A major winter storm is impacting the central and eastern United States, with blizzard conditions expected from Kansas to New Jersey. Heavy snow, freezing rain, and dangerously low temperatures are predicted, prompting states of emergency in several areas. Travel disruptions and hazardous conditions are anticipated through early next week.
What's behind the headline?
Key Impacts of the Winter Storm
- Blizzard Conditions: Areas in Kansas and Missouri are experiencing blizzard warnings, with travel becoming 'very difficult to impossible.'
- Heavy Snowfall: Predictions indicate up to 14 inches of snow in parts of Kansas and northern Missouri, with significant accumulations expected in the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic.
- Travel Disruptions: Major highways, including parts of Interstate 70, have been closed, and airports like Kansas City International have halted operations due to icy conditions.
- Emergency Declarations: States of emergency have been declared in Missouri and Arkansas, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
- Public Safety Risks: Authorities are warning of risks such as carbon monoxide poisoning and hypothermia, urging residents to stay indoors and prepare for power outages.
What the papers say
According to AP News, the National Weather Service has issued warnings across multiple states, stating that travel could be 'very difficult to impossible' due to blizzard conditions. Heather Hollingsworth from The Independent emphasizes the dangers posed by the polar vortex, noting that it can lead to intense cold outbreaks. The reports highlight the urgency of the situation, with officials urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for severe weather impacts. The Kansas Highway Patrol has shared alarming visuals of treacherous road conditions, reinforcing the need for caution. Overall, the coverage underscores the widespread impact of this winter storm and the importance of public safety measures.
How we got here
The storm is linked to a polar vortex that has stretched down from the Arctic, causing extreme cold and severe weather across the U.S. This phenomenon has been exacerbated by a rapidly warming Arctic, which studies suggest contributes to more frequent cold outbreaks.
Go deeper
- What areas are most affected by the storm?
- How long will the severe weather last?
- What safety measures should residents take?
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