Blizzard warnings in Kansas and Missouri spark fears of deadly winter storm
- Multiple school districts in Maryland have announced closures due to an impending winter storm.
- The storm is expected to bring significant snowfall and dangerously low temperatures, raising safety concerns.
- Residents are urged to stay prepared and avoid travel during the severe weather.
On January 5, 2025, a major winter storm warning was issued in Maryland, prompting immediate action from local school districts in the Baltimore area. Baltimore City Public Schools, Baltimore County Public Schools, and several others announced closures due to the forecasted severe weather, which is expected to produce widespread snowfall of 4 to 8 inches across the state, with localized totals potentially reaching 10-12 inches. Schools such as Loyola Blakefield and Cecil Community College are among those suspending activities to ensure the safety of students and staff. The storm, which began affecting the central U.S., brings with it a mix of snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. Blizzard warnings were issued for parts of Kansas and Missouri, with authorities advising residents to stay off the roads. The combination of heavy snowfall and high winds will likely lead to low visibility and hazardous travel conditions. Meteorologists stress the significance of this storm as it moves from the Midwest into the Ohio Valley and eventually reaches the Mid-Atlantic states. Accompanying the snow threat is a hard freeze expected to impact areas as far south as Florida. The National Weather Service has indicated that temperatures across the eastern two-thirds of the country could fall 12 to 25 degrees below normal. This extreme cold, linked to changes in the Arctic climate, raises safety concerns, particularly for those living in vulnerable conditions. Residents are urged to prepare for potential power outages and to limit travel during the storm. Officials in Annapolis are proactively asking residents to clear snow routes and stay informed about the evolving weather situation. The emphasis remains on safety and preparedness as Maryland braces for the anticipated storm effects. As the storm progresses, updates will continue to inform residents about conditions, closures, and any other significant developments, underlining the importance of community response to severe weather events.