Arctic storm threatens massive snowfall across the eastern US

In the United States, a significant cross-country storm is causing widespread snowy conditions, affecting regions from the Cascades and Rockies to parts of the Plains as of Monday morning, February 17, 2025. The storm, first identified as already underway, is expected to continue its trajectory toward the south and east, resulting in heavy snowfall across various states, including Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, and as far as Kentucky and Tennessee. As the system progresses, travel conditions are forecasted to deteriorate significantly due to expected accumulations of 6 to 12 inches in the affected areas, and a cold snap is set to follow with extreme temperature plunges. The storm will reach its peak impact in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions later this week, where nearly 100 million Americans could be directly affected. Meteorologists suggest that this storm has the potential to be the largest of the season in parts of the Mid-Atlantic, with predictions indicating over a foot of snow in certain areas. The situation is compounded by a fresh influx of Arctic air, which is expected to create additional challenges, including extremely low temperatures. This cold snap will bring dangerous wind chills, prompting a variety of cold weather alerts across 13 states, extending from Texas to Minnesota. In Kansas and southern Missouri, heavy snowfall is forecasted, expected to spread into Arkansas and nearby states by Tuesday evening. Notably, areas like Nashville, Virginia, and North Carolina will also contend with significant snowfall, causing severe disruptions to transportation, including major interstates. Flight disruptions have been reported in multiple major airport hubs such as New York, Boston, and Chicago, due to the worsening travel conditions. The storm pathology suggests dual components contributing to its strength, specifically how it interacts with the Atlantic moisture, which will determine if it escalates into a nor’easter. As the week progresses, more than 65 million Americans will endure dangerously low temperatures, as daily low temperature records are anticipated across multiple states. Already, reports from regions like North Dakota indicate wind chills of up to 60 below zero, while places like Minneapolis are expected to feel as cold as 42 below zero. Forecasts predict that by Wednesday, travel and safety issues will escalate due to the significant impact these weather patterns have on day-to-day life for the affected regions. Authorities are urging residents in these areas to prepare for freezing conditions and to remain updated on weather advisories.