A massive snowstorm is sweeping across the United States, unleashing snow, ice, and frigid chaos. From the Midwest to the Mid-Atlantic, snow-packed roads and closed airports have upended travel plans for millions. The dangerously low temperatures that follow are set to add another layer of trouble.

The National Weather Service predicts significant impacts, particularly in West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, and Washington, D.C. Roads are slick, schools are closed, and power outages are widespread.

Worse yet, more snow is expected to follow in the coming days.

An Unprecedented Snowstorm

The storm has already dumped up to 18 inches of snow in parts of Kansas, turning highways into whiteout zones. Across the Ohio Valley and the Mid-Atlantic, 6-12 inches of snow are expected, with some areas bracing for even more. The snowstorm is not done flexing its muscles either.

Fox News / Icy conditions are spreading, bringing freezing rain to regions like Indiana and Kentucky, where travel is becoming nearly impossible.

Air travel is not faring much better, either. Thousands of flights have been delayed or canceled, with major disruptions at Reagan National Airport and Dulles International Airport near Washington, D.C. For those relying on trains or buses, delays are rampant, and roads are clogged with stranded vehicles.

Dangerously Low Temperatures Follow

As if snow and ice were not enough, the snowstorm is dragging in dangerously cold air behind it. Temperatures are set to plummet across the central and eastern U.S., making already tough conditions even worse. Experts warn that frostbite could occur in minutes for those exposed to the elements.

This arctic blast is particularly concerning for communities still recovering from the storm’s initial impacts. Power outages have left hundreds of thousands of people without heat. Across Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Virginia, the outages are straining emergency services and leaving families scrambling to stay warm.

Local governments are urging people to check on neighbors and limit time outdoors.

Schools and Businesses Close as Snowstorm Sweeps In

The snowstorm has disrupted daily life from the Midwest to the East Coast. Public schools in Washington, D.C., are shuttered, with similar closures reported across Virginia, Kentucky, and Missouri. Many businesses have also opted to close their doors, leaving streets eerily quiet.

GTN / Sporting events, concerts, and even postal services have been affected by the powerful winter storm.

For those stuck at home, the storm’s relentless snowfall provides both a breathtaking view and a reminder of its disruptive power.

Power Outages Leave Thousands in the Cold

As the snowstorm raged on, nearly 330,000 customers found themselves in the dark. In states like Missouri, West Virginia, and Kentucky, heavy snow weighed down power lines, while ice snapped tree branches onto electrical infrastructure. For families without backup generators, staying warm has become a top priority.

Emergency shelters are opening in the hardest-hit areas, offering temporary refuge. However, road closures and treacherous conditions make it challenging for some to reach safety.

Officials are working around the clock to restore power, but for now, patience and preparation are key.

How to Stay Safe During This Winter Storm

Staying safe during this snowstorm means planning ahead. If you are driving, think twice before hitting the road. Ice-covered highways and low visibility have already caused countless accidents. Local authorities are urging drivers to stay home unless it is an absolute emergency.

If you are homebound, stock up on essentials. Power outages could last for days in some regions. So, having food, water, and warm clothing is critical. Keep flashlights handy, and if you have a fireplace, gather plenty of firewood. Most importantly, stay informed. Weather updates can change quickly, and knowing what is coming next is your best defense.