(WASHINGTON, 2026-01-23 18:18:00) — A major winter storm threatening widespread disruption and dangerous conditions has prompted a state of emergency declaration in a dozen U.S. states. The storm is forecast to stretch approximately 3,000 kilometers from New Mexico to Maine, bringing heavy snow, freezing winds, and potentially record-breaking low temperatures.
A powerful winter storm is poised to impact a vast swath of the United States, prompting emergency declarations and widespread travel disruptions.
- A state of emergency has been declared in New York, Texas, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, and Missouri.
- Approximately 160 million residents are under weather warnings or advisories.
- Airlines have preemptively canceled hundreds of flights, and schools have closed as a precaution.
Governors in twelve states have declared a state of emergency in anticipation of what officials are calling one of the most serious winter storms in recent years, according to announcements from the respective state governments. The declarations allow states to quickly mobilize resources and personnel if needed.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul described the approaching weather as “a dangerous combination of heavy snowfall and extremely low temperatures.” She warned that the expected cold could be “absolutely lethal.”
Fears of Widespread Disruptions
Airlines have already begun canceling flights in anticipation of the storm. Hundreds of flights have been canceled, and passengers are being offered the opportunity to rebook for free, according to media reports. Lufthansa has canceled numerous flights to and from North America scheduled for Saturday, with disruptions continuing for flights to Washington, New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and Charlotte on Sunday, a spokeswoman said.
Many schools have also proactively canceled classes for Friday as a safety measure. Authorities are urging residents to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel.
The approaching storm also raises concerns about potential power outages. Officials fear downed trees and ice accumulation on power lines could lead to widespread blackouts.
Extreme Temperatures Forecast
The weather service forecasts temperatures could plummet to minus 45 degrees Celsius (minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit) in parts of Minnesota and North Dakota. Weather warnings and special advisories are currently in effect for approximately 160 million residents.
Why It Matters
This storm highlights the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather events. While winter storms are a natural occurrence, experts note that climate change is contributing to both the frequency and intensity of such events. The storm’s widespread impact, spanning from the Southwest to the Northeast, underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure and the importance of preparedness. The preemptive state of emergency declarations and flight cancellations demonstrate a growing awareness of the need to prioritize public safety in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by dpa-AFX and added independent analysis and context.
