Snow Safety Warnings Issued as 24 States Brace for Up to 3 Feet of Snow
On Wednesday, January 21, and heading into Thursday, January 22, the National Weather Service (NWS) announced new winter storm warnings for areas across the U.S. facing severe weather, even in states not used to the cold.
The winter weather warnings and winter weather advisories are for a mix of snow, ice and dangerously cold temperatures, which are working their way across the country this week and into the weekend.
It's been a brutally cold winter in the U.S. so far, and that trend will continue from Wednesday, January 21, through the upcoming weekend. A high-impact winter storm is projected to bring snow and ice across more than 24 states, from as south as Texas to as north as Massachusetts, going into Friday, January 23, through the weekend.
"Potentially hundreds of thousands of people may go without electricity and heat for days," AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter said in a statement.
Winter Storm Warnings Impact 150 Million Americans
As arctic air continues its hold on the Midwest and Northeast, areas in the south and southeast are bracing for an unusual round of snow and ice.
"A swath of snow heavy enough to shovel and plow is setting up from northeastern New Mexico and northwestern Texas through Kansas and northern Oklahoma to southeastern New York, New Jersey and central and southern New England by the end of the weekend," AccuWeather states in a Wednesday, January 21 feature.
Late-effect snow will be especially heavy, with some areas expecting up to three feet of fresh snow.
"As was observed with earlier lake-effect activity, intense and persistent bands may produce 6-12 inches of snow in localized areas from western Michigan to western and northern New York," AccuWeather noted in a separate weather feature. "Total lake-effect snow for this week may exceed 3 feet in some of the most persistent bands from Monday to Thursday."
As for the bitterly cold temperatures, researchers predict that arctic air from Canada will bring the coldest air of the season into the U.S. It's likely to dip as far south as Texas and into the East, with a special emphasis on the Midwest and Northeast.
"From a scientific standpoint, the upcoming cold is projected to bring temperature departures of 10-40 degrees below the historical average over the Midwest on Friday," AccuWeather notes.
Snow Safety Warnings and Tips Amid Dangerous 2026 Weather
With more snow in the forecast for the U.S., even in areas not accustomed to snow, residents may need to shovel. The Mayo Clinic has issued safety warnings and precautions when removing snow, and one of their most significant points is to take frequent breaks and pace yourself to avoid overexertion.
"If you have a history of heart problems and are physically inactive, it's best to consult with your health care team before starting heavy exercise like shoveling," the Mayo Clinic warns. "In addition, don't shovel while smoking, eating or right after consuming caffeine since this may place extra stress on your heart."
The Mayo Clinic also stays to drink plenty of fluids and dress warmly. "Wear several layers of clothing," they note. "You can remove a layer if needed. Avoid wearing cotton next to your body."
They add, "If you perspire, it can become damp, and you'll get chilled. Protect your hands, feet and face since these are common areas for frostbite."
Finally, wear a hat that covers your ears when you're outside, as well as a scarf to protect your lower face. Mittens are usually a warmer choice than gloves.