A powerful winter storm is sweeping across large parts of the United States, disrupting travel and threatening severe weather conditions for millions of people. Authorities say the storm system is bringing heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain from the Rocky Mountains to the eastern coastline, creating dangerous conditions across wide areas of the country.
More than 8,000 flights have been cancelled nationwide as airlines struggle to manage the impact of the storm. Travel disruptions are expected to continue through the weekend as the weather system moves eastward. Meteorologists warn that the storm could affect more than 140 million people, with temperatures dropping sharply in several regions.
More than a dozen states have declared weather emergencies in response to the deteriorating conditions. Winter storm alerts have been issued from New Mexico through New England. The US National Weather Service has warned of a particularly hazardous ice belt stretching from eastern Texas to North Carolina, where freezing rain could make roads nearly impassable.
By Friday night, parts of Texas were already experiencing icy rainfall and hail. Forecasts indicate the storm will strengthen as it moves northeast, bringing heavy snowfall to major cities. Areas including Washington DC, New York and Boston could receive close to a foot of snow, officials said.
Governors in several states have urged residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Emergency services are on high alert as heavy snow and ice increase the risk of traffic accidents and power outages. Utility companies have begun preparing for possible electricity disruptions caused by falling trees and damaged power lines.
According to flight-tracking service FlightAware, more than 3,400 flights were delayed or cancelled on Saturday alone. By Sunday, cancellations seemed set to rise further, with over 5,000 additional flights already called off. Air India has also suspended flights to and from New York and Newark on January 25 and 26, advising passengers to check travel updates before heading to the airport.
Weather experts warn that the worst conditions may still lie ahead, urging residents in affected areas to stay informed and follow local safety instructions as the storm continues to move across the country.