Summarize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for nine states, with snow expected in much of the Southeast and parts of the Northwest and Midwest.It comes amid a cold front that is bringing freezing temperatures and hazardous conditions to millions across the U.S. this month.Why It MattersSnow can interfere with travel and create hazardous driving conditions, while winter storms can cause power outages. Additionally, exposure to freezing wind chills can endanger life.What to KnowAt the time of writing, storm warnings were active in Michigan, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alaska, Florida, Virginia, Georgia, Montana and Alabama.A storm warning indicates that a significant winter weather event including snow, ice, sleet or blowing snow or a combination of these hazards, will occur, according to the NWS.Residents across the affected regions are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to use extreme caution if travel is unavoidable. It’s recommended to keep winter emergency kits in vehicles, which should include flashlights, food and blankets. Additionally, individuals should check local forecasts and road conditions before heading out to stay informed and ensure their safety.
Snowfall in Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C., on January 19, 2025.
Snowfall in Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C., on January 19, 2025.
Aaron Schwartz/Sipa USA/AP
MichiganParts of Michigan, including areas in the west and central regions, remain under a Winter Storm Warning with snow accumulations expected to range between 3 to 8 inches. Winds gusting up to 35 mph will create whiteout conditions, severely reducing visibility to less than a quarter mile. Travel is expected to be treacherous, and the storm is predicted to last until Thursday morning.In particular, Western Chippewa and Mackinac Counties are forecast to receive up to 8 inches of snow, with hazardous conditions expected to peak Wednesday evening. Additionally, Leelanau, Benzie, and Manistee Counties are anticipating snowfall amounts between 4 and 6 inches, along with gusty winds that will result in life-threatening travel conditions.North CarolinaIn central and eastern North Carolina, the Sandhills and Coastal Plain regions are under a Winter Storm Warning until 7 a.m. ET. An additional inch of snow is expected, leading to slick and hazardous road conditions, particularly on bridges and overpasses. Commuters are strongly advised to delay travel if possible or use extreme caution when driving.In the northeast counties, including Pasquotank, Camden, and Currituck, the Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. Wednesday. These areas are expected to receive snowfall totals between 3 to 6 inches, resulting in slick roadways and potentially dangerous travel conditions for residents heading to work or school.Along the Southeast Coast, coastal Pender and New Hanover counties, including Wilmington, are preparing for 3 to 5 inches of snow. Conditions are expected to worsen overnight, with a slight improvement anticipated by late Wednesday morning.South CarolinaEastern South Carolina, including Charleston and surrounding coastal areas, is expected to experience heavy snowfall and potential sleet. Accumulations of 3 to 5 inches are anticipated, with some localized areas possibly receiving higher totals. Travel conditions are extremely dangerous, particularly on suspension bridges, where falling ice could create additional risks for commuters.In the northeast counties, including Marlboro and Dillon, snowfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected through Wednesday morning. Residents are urged to prepare for icy road conditions and the possibility of power outages due to the winter weather.Along the coast, Georgetown and Horry counties, including Myrtle Beach, will see snowfall totals between 3 and 5 inches. Travel is expected to become treacherous overnight, with hazardous conditions continuing into Wednesday.AlaskaThe southern Seward Peninsula and Upper Kobuk Valleys in Alaska are enduring intense snowfall, with totals reaching up to 14 inches in some areas. Gusty winds are further complicating visibility, making travel nearly impossible. The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until Wednesday evening, with severe conditions expected to persist.FloridaIn Northeast Florida, Suwannee, Baker and Nassau counties are under a winter storm warning until 1 p.m. Wednesday. These areas are expected to receive up to 2 inches of snow and sleet, along with ice accumulations of up to two-tenths of an inch. Roadways are anticipated to become slippery, particularly during the Wednesday morning commute, creating hazardous driving conditions.In the Big Bend and Panhandle regions, including Tallahassee and Gadsden County, heavy mixed precipitation is forecast. Snow accumulations are expected to range from less than an inch in some areas to up to 4 inches near the Flint River Valley. The ice accumulation could lead to power outages, and travel is highly discouraged due to the dangerous conditions.VirginiaNorfolk, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach are expecting heavy snow with totals of 3 to 5 inches through Wednesday afternoon. Localized bay effect snow showers may exacerbate accumulations. Authorities are emphasizing caution for morning commuters.GeorgiaSouthern Georgia, including Bryan and Liberty Counties, is experiencing a mix of snow and sleet. Accumulations of up to 4 inches, combined with freezing rain, have created treacherous conditions on roads and bridges. Authorities are urging residents to remain indoors unless travel is absolutely necessary to avoid dangerous conditions.Areas near Albany and Valdosta are also under winter storm warnings. These regions are expected to experience similar threats of ice accumulation and hazardous road conditions, making travel risky.In Central and North Georgia, cities like Atlanta, Athens and Macon are facing up to two inches of additional snow by Wednesday morning. Icy conditions on roads, bridges and overpasses will likely disrupt the morning commute, and local authorities are advising people to delay travel whenever possible to ensure safety.MontanaIn stark contrast to the Southeastern states, parts of central Montana, including Basin and Fergus Counties, are experiencing significantly heavier snowfall. The Bears Paw Mountains could see up to 15 inches of snow by Wednesday night, with wind gusts up to 50 mph creating widespread blowing snow and reduced visibility.AlabamaPortions of southeast Alabama will see between 4 and 6 inches of snow on Wednesday morning, with residents warned of hazardous travel conditions. Heavy snow may also cause sporadic power outages, according to the NWS.What Happens NextThe duration of the winter storm and extreme cold warnings varies from state to state, so please check with the NWS. Newsweek will keep you updated.
