USA: Over 60 million Americans are preparing for the first major winter storm of 2025, spanning from the Central Plains to the East Coast. According to the US National Weather Service (NWS), the storm brings a combination of heavy snow, freezing rain, and severe thunderstorms, impacting multiple states and major urban centres.
The NWS has issued warnings for hazardous conditions likely to disrupt travel, particularly along the heavily travelled Interstate 70 corridor, passing through key cities such as St. Louis, Indianapolis, and Columbus. Authorities have cautioned drivers to avoid unnecessary travel due to snow and ice accumulation.
In response to the deteriorating weather, Missouri, Kentucky, and Arkansas have declared states of emergency, mobilising resources to address the storm’s impact. National Guard units in these states are on standby, prepared to assist with rescue operations and road clearance efforts.
Central Kansas has already experienced significant disruption, with icy roads causing multiple truck accidents and resulting in several highway closures. Kansas City International Airport suspended operations temporarily due to hazardous conditions, delaying dozens of flights. Airlines have advised passengers to check flight statuses and expect further cancellations.
Meteorologists have described the storm as a “multi-hazard event,” with freezing rain expected to create power outages and dangerous conditions in parts of Arkansas, Tennessee, and southern Illinois. Meanwhile, heavy snow in the Midwest could lead to snowdrifts and impassable roads. Severe thunderstorms are also forecast in the South, increasing the risk of flash flooding and tornadoes.
Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors, stock up on essentials, and remain informed through official weather updates. The storm, expected to intensify over the next 48 hours, underscores the importance of preparation during extreme weather events.