Washington, January 24, 2026
A dangerous winter storm sweeping across the United States has triggered widespread alarm, placing nearly 150 million people on high alert and prompting emergency declarations in 15 states, according to US authorities.
The storm began intensifying early Saturday morning, bringing heavy snowfall and severe winter conditions to northwestern Texas and Oklahoma City. Meteorologists warn that the system is expected to expand rapidly, impacting vast portions of the country with bitter cold, snow, ice, hail, and freezing rain.
❄️ Heavy Snowfall Forecast Across Multiple Regions
The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecast significant snowfall stretching from Oklahoma to the northeastern United States, with several regions likely to receive more than one foot of snow by Monday.
In addition to the central plains, southern Plains, Mississippi Valley, Tennessee Valley, and parts of the Southeast are also expected to experience a dangerous mix of heavy snow, rainfall, hailstorms, and ice accumulation.
⚠️ Power Outages and Major Disruptions Feared
Authorities have warned that ice buildup and heavy snowfall could lead to:
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Widespread power outages
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Dangerous road conditions
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Flight cancellations and transport disruptions
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Structural damage from snow load
Emergency management agencies said the storm poses a serious threat to public safety, especially in regions unaccustomed to prolonged winter extremes.
🚨 Emergency Declared in 15 States
Due to the severity of the forecast, states across the storm’s projected path have declared emergencies, enabling faster deployment of resources, road crews, and emergency services.
Officials are urging residents to:
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Avoid non-essential travel
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Stock essential supplies
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Prepare for prolonged power outages
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Follow local advisories closely
Meteorologists say the storm could rank among the most disruptive winter systems of the season, with conditions expected to remain hazardous for the next 48 to 72 hours.
