A powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions to the central United States and threaten flash flooding, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes across the Southeast. The storm, which extends from the Southwest to the Northeast, is predicted to encompass nearly every type of winter weather threat, including strong winds and serious flooding. Already, the storm has caused travel disruptions in the Four Corners region, leading to road closures and warnings against non-essential travel.
Currently centered over the Four Corners, the storm is expected to strengthen as it moves into the Southern Plains, where blizzard and whiteout conditions are anticipated. From Monday afternoon through Tuesday, the storm will impact the Gulf Coast and Southeast, putting nearly 70 million people at risk for severe weather, including tornadoes, severe winds, and flooding rain. Cities like New Orleans, Gulfport, and Mobile will be affected, with the possibility of tornadoes.
Over the course of 72 hours, the storm will cover over 1,800 miles and produce significant snowfall in multiple states. This storm follows another powerful system that recently dumped more than a foot of snow in the Northeast and caused rain, snow, ice, and a tornado as it moved from the Gulf Coast to Maine.
The storm is leading to flight delays and cancellations, which have been compounded by the grounding of certain Boeing jets following an incident on an Alaska Airlines flight. Thousands of flights have been delayed or canceled, and some airports have reported significant operational disruptions.
As the storm continues to move eastward, blizzard warnings are in effect for parts of New Mexico, eastern Colorado, the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles, western Kansas, and southwest Nebraska. The storm is expected to intensify and cause widespread significant effects east of the Rockies. By Monday afternoon, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama will feel the force of the storm with a high risk of tornadoes and heavy rainfall.
The storm will then proceed to the Gulf Coast and continue moving eastward, bringing an enhanced risk of severe weather to cities like Tallahassee, Albany, and Panama City. The central and southern Plains will experience poor visibility and dangerous driving conditions, while the Midwest will be affected on Tuesday. The storm will eventually bring heavy snowfall to the interior Northeast.
In addition to snow and cold temperatures, the storm is also expected to bring flooding, damaging winds, and tornadoes. The Gulf Coast will experience severe storms fueled by warm, moist air and may see strong tornadoes and damaging winds. Over 15 million people are under a severe storm threat on Monday, and over 35 million people face the same threat on Tuesday.
Flooding is a significant concern, with potential coastal flooding along the eastern Gulf Coast and East Coast. Widespread rainfall of 1 to 3 inches is expected, with isolated areas receiving over 4 inches. This rainfall, combined with snowmelt, could lead to flooding in the Northeast. Saturated ground also raises the risk of trees falling onto power lines or homes.
Winds will also be strong, potentially exceeding 50 mph on the warm side of the storm. Coastal areas may experience hurricane-force winds, causing damage and power outages. High surf, beach erosion, and dangerous rip currents are also expected.
The storm system is expected to wrap up by the end of the week, but another storm may follow a similar path and affect the same areas later on. Residents along the Gulf Coast, especially in Louisiana and Mississippi, are especially concerned about flooding due to the already above-normal rainfall in those areas.
In conclusion, a powerful winter storm is moving across the central United States, bringing heavy snowfall, blizzard conditions, severe weather, and the potential for significant flooding. The storm has already caused travel disruptions and flight cancellations, and it is expected to have a widespread impact from the Southern Plains to the Northeast. Residents should be prepared for hazardous conditions, including strong winds, heavy snow, and potential tornadoes. Flooding is a particular concern, especially along the Gulf Coast and East Coast.