An “unusually large and severe” winter storm is set to impact more than 170 million Americans across dozens of states this week, forcing school closures and all but guaranteeing travel chaos.
More than 30 states have issued weather advisories or warnings as the storm travels from the Southern Rockies to New England Friday through Sunday. Dozens of states are expected to face heavy snowfall, ice and freezing temperatures.
Wind chills could even drop temperatures as low as minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit (-45 degrees Celsius) in some states.
“Dangerously cold air remains in the forecast for more than half of the U.S. population through the weekend and into early next week,” the National Weather Service said.
Several states could see up to a foot of snow, including Oklahoma, Kansas, Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia, according to the service.
Heavy snowfall and icy conditions are expected to cause “widespread travel disruptions.” Ice accumulation could also damage trees — leading to widespread power outages — and create “extremely dangerous or impassable travel conditions.”
School and office closures, as well as emergency declarations, are already in effect in some communities. Empty grocery store shelves are being reported as residents stock up for the storm.
Chicago Public Schools cancels class
Chicago Public Schools has canceled class Friday as the region prepares for “frigid temperatures” and wind chills that could reach minus 35 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 37 degrees Celsius).
“There will be no remote learning for students tomorrow — Friday, January 23. We expect that classes will resume for all students on Monday, January 26,” the school district said in a statement.
Katie Hawkinson23 January 2026 15:38
More than a dozen states declare emergency
More than a dozen states have declared a state of emergency as a powerful winter storm threatens millions of Americans.
These states include Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
Katie Hawkinson23 January 2026 15:33
Forecast: Some states could see a foot of snow or more
Localized areas in several states could see a foot of snow or more as a devastating winter storm tears through the country.
Areas in Kansas, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Virginia and West Virginia are among those that could see up to 12 inches of snow this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
See the agency’s full forecast below:
Katie Hawkinson23 January 2026 15:23
Flight delays and cancelations begin as winter storm threatens travel nationwide
This weekend’s winter storm is expected to cause “widespread travel disruptions.”
Some areas could even see “extremely dangerous or impassable travel conditions” thanks to heavy snow, ice and freezing temperatures.
Flight delays and cancelations have already begun, according to FlightAware.
More than 900 flights into, out of or within the U.S. have been delayed so far Friday, while more than 400 flights have been canceled.
Katie Hawkinson23 January 2026 15:10
Groceries fly off shelves as residents stock up for storm
Groceries are flying off the shelves across the country as residents stock up for the winter storm.
Katie Hawkinson23 January 2026 15:07
How to prepare for the ‘severe’ winter storm
The National Weather Service is warning residents to prepare for “widespread heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain” from the Southern Rockies to New England this weekend.
The day before the storm is set to arrive, the NWS suggests residents adjust their plans, ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and bring their pets inside.
On the day of the storm, residents should remain vigilant and drive only if necessary, the agency said.
Other key tips include checking on neighbors and loved ones, properly ventilating emergency heaters and keeping power generators at least 20 feet away from a home.
A significant, long-duration winter storm will bring widespread heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain from the Southern Rockies to New England through Monday. Widespread travel disruptions, prolonged power outages, and vast tree damage is likely.
There is still time to prepare… pic.twitter.com/ZoiSRrbjXx
— National Weather Service (@NWS) January 23, 2026
Katie Hawkinson23 January 2026 14:59
Winter storm threatens U.S.
A massive winter storm is expected to bring “heavy snow and crippling ice” to more than 170 million Americans starting today.
Here’s what to know from the National Weather Service:
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Katie Hawkinson23 January 2026 14:52
