A powerful winter storm is currently impacting 12 U.S. states, bringing heavy snow, ice, and strong winds, with warnings from weather authorities urging residents to stay prepared and prioritize safety through Saturday.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued alerts for Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, Texas, New Mexico, Louisiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Severe Winter Conditions and Travel Hazards

The storm is causing dangerous travel conditions in multiple areas, with snow and ice creating slippery roads and low visibility. Winter Storm Warnings are expected to remain in effect for many regions through Saturday morning. Below are the latest updates from the NWS and key safety guidelines for residents.

Saturday Warnings

The NWS has issued a Winter Storm Warning for parts of East Arkansas, North Mississippi, Southeast Missouri, and West Tennessee. The warning is effective from 6 p.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Saturday, Central Standard Time (CST).

Affected areas are expected to receive 4 to 6 inches of snow, with some regions also seeing light ice accumulations. Counties like Tallahatchie, Yalobusha, Calhoun, Chickasaw, and Monroe may see up to 2 inches of snow and icy spots, particularly on bridges and overpasses. Cities including Bruce, Water Valley, Aberdeen, Amory, and Charleston are likely to experience hazardous travel conditions.

Thursday Warnings

Additional Winter Storm Warnings are in place for parts of West Virginia and surrounding areas, expected to remain effective until Thursday at noon, Eastern Standard Time (EST).

In Eastern Tucker County, including Thomas, Canaan Valley, and Davis, snowfall totals are predicted to reach 4 to 8 inches, with strong winds gusting up to 40 mph and wind chills plunging to -10°F to -15°F overnight.

Western Grant and Western Pendleton Counties can expect up to 4 inches of snow, gusts of 50 mph, and slick roads. Meanwhile, Northwest Pocahontas, Southeast Randolph, and Southeast Webster Counties are forecast to receive 4 to 6 inches of snow, with gusts reaching 45 mph, causing unsafe road conditions and travel disruptions.

Friday’s Impacts

The winter storm will bring continued hazardous conditions during Friday’s morning and evening commutes, with icy roads, reduced visibility, and snow accumulation making travel dangerous. These impacts may extend into Saturday morning.

The NWS advises residents to avoid travel if possible. For those who must travel, packing an emergency kit with essentials such as water, food, a flashlight, warm clothing, and blankets is strongly recommended.

Safety Recommendations

Residents are urged to stay indoors during the storm for their safety. If venturing outside is unavoidable, wear multiple layers of warm clothing and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite or hypothermia.

Travelers are encouraged to check road conditions by calling 5-1-1 and to exercise extreme caution if driving.

Understanding Weather Alerts

The NWS issues a Winter Storm Warning when severe winter weather, such as heavy snow (5 inches in 12 hours or 7 inches in 24 hours), significant ice accumulation, or life-threatening conditions are occurring or imminent. For areas with unique geography, like Allegany and Highland counties, stricter criteria apply, requiring at least 6 inches of snow in 12 hours or 8 inches in 24 hours.

Less severe conditions, such as 2 to 4 inches of snow or light freezing rain, trigger a Winter Weather Advisory. While less extreme than a warning, advisories signal potential travel disruptions and hazardous conditions.