Road conditions are rapidly worsening across the central U.S. as a combination of snow, ice, and plummeting temperatures makes its presence felt. Forecasts suggest that this severe winter weather will extend eastward in the upcoming days.
“Winter has returned,” stated a lead forecaster from the National Weather Service.
The polar vortex, characterized by extremely cold air typically confined near the North Pole, has sent frigid air spiraling down to the U.S. This phenomenon, partially attributed to rapid warming in the Arctic, has led to widespread extreme cold conditions.
By Saturday evening, heavy snowfall was anticipated from central Kansas to Indiana, particularly north of Interstate 70, with expectations of over 8 inches in some areas. Notably, part of the interstate was closed in central Kansas by Saturday afternoon.
The storm is forecasted to continue into the Ohio Valley, anticipating significant travel disruptions. The Mid-Atlantic states will likely witness impacts from Sunday through Monday, with a hard freeze even predicted for Florida.
Alongside the storm’s fury, multiple accidents were reported west of Salina, Kansas, where a fire truck and several tractor-trailers overturned. Highway Patrol officials noted incidents of jackknifed rigs and vehicles off the road due to icy conditions.
Authorities in Wichita, Kansas, urged drivers to remain indoors as freezing rain led to numerous accidents. Emergency services responded to calls, stressing the importance of caution during these treacherous weather conditions.
A state of emergency has been declared in Missouri, with officials warning that whiteout conditions could lead to dangerous travel situations and increased risks of getting stranded.
In Wichita, residents flocked to stores to stock up on supplies ahead of the storm, while warming centers opened in local churches and libraries to assist those in need.
Officials advised individuals to reach their destinations as soon as possible and to stay put, recommending that those who must travel pack essential items and remain at their destination.
Several businesses closed in the Kansas City area as local school districts considered canceling classes in light of the severe weather.
While temperatures, although not record-breaking, compounded the challenges faced by residents—hovering in the teens in Chicago and dropping to 14 below in International Falls, Minnesota.
Virginia’s governor declared a state of emergency ahead of the incoming storm, citing potential impacts on residents’ ability to vote in the upcoming special elections. Residents were encouraged to vote early before the winter weather arrives.
Meanwhile, efforts in Louisiana have intensified as crews seek to locate a manatee spotted in Lake Pontchartrain prior to the cold snap. Manatee sightings in winter raise alarm due to the risk of cold stress, which can occur when temperatures drop below 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
“We are doing everything we can to apprehend this animal,” said a local wildlife rescue coordinator.
