Forecasters are warning that one of the most significant winter storms in recent years is set to impact large parts of the United States this weekend, bringing dangerously cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and widespread ice accumulation.

As of Thursday morning, nearly half of the U.S. population was under some form of winter storm or extreme cold alert. Winter storm watches stretched from New Mexico to New York and New Jersey, while extreme cold warnings were issued for parts of the Upper Midwest. In some areas, cold alerts extended as far south as the U.S.–Mexico border.

Meteorologists warned that the extreme cold could pose serious health risks. The National Weather Service said wind chills in the Upper Midwest could drop to as low as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly in the Twin Cities region late Thursday into early Friday. At these temperatures, frostbite can occur within minutes.

At the same time, a powerful storm system is expected to sweep across the country, producing heavy snow and ice across a wide region. Cities such as Tulsa, Louisville, Cincinnati, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. could see more than eight inches of snow.

Forecasters noted that the unusually cold air mass will allow snow to remain light and fluffy, increasing accumulation totals. South of the main snow band, freezing rain is expected, with areas between Dallas and Nashville facing up to half an inch of ice.

Such ice accumulation could be enough to down trees and power lines, leading to power outages and dangerous travel conditions. Because the cold air is expected to linger, impacts from the storm may last well into next week.

Cody Snell of the Weather Prediction Center said the most significant and long-lasting effects may come from freezing rain and sleet stretching from the southern Plains through the Tennessee Valley and into the southern Mid-Atlantic.

“This is due to very cold Arctic air at the surface combined with warmer air aloft, causing snow to melt and then refreeze near the ground,” Snell explained.

Travel Disruptions Expected

Major airlines, including United, Delta, and American Airlines, have issued travel waivers allowing passengers to rebook flights without penalty. Travelers are being urged to check flight status and avoid unnecessary travel.

States Declare Emergencies

Several states, including Virginia and Texas, have declared states of emergency in preparation for the storm. Authorities are urging residents to stay off the roads, prepare for power outages, and follow official guidance as the storm unfolds.

Officials continue to stress the importance of staying informed, as this powerful winter system is expected to bring prolonged and potentially dangerous conditions across much of the country.