- Winter Storm Blair continues to disrupt the Midwest, Ohio Valley, and Mid-Atlantic regions.
- Heavy snow, ice, and subzero temperatures are expected for the next 72 hours.
- Washington, D.C., and Baltimore will see additional snowfall and dangerous travel conditions.
- Kansas City and Topeka brace for bitter cold with sunshine through midweek.
- Authorities warn residents to avoid travel and prepare for prolonged power outages.
Severe Weather Disrupts Millions Across the U.S.
Winter Storm Blair is delivering widespread snowfall, ice storms, and freezing temperatures across the Midwest, Ohio Valley, and Mid-Atlantic regions. Millions of residents are grappling with dangerous travel conditions, disrupted power supplies, and extreme cold as the storm moves eastward.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for cities like Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Kansas City, Cincinnati, and Philadelphia. In addition to the official NWS reports, the Weather Channel predicts the storm will persist for the next 72 hours, bringing further disruptions to transportation, power, and daily life.
72-Hour Regional Forecast
Mid-Atlantic Region
Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, MD:
- Monday: Snowfall of 4-6 inches is expected, with sleet mixing in later. Temperatures will drop to 18°F (-8°C), making roads icy and travel treacherous.
- Tuesday: Snow tapers off early, but high winds will cause drifting snow, reducing visibility. Highs will reach 33°F (1°C), while lows drop to 20°F (-7°C).
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy skies with continued cold. Highs around 32°F (0°C), and lows near 15°F (-9°C).
Midwest Region
Kansas City, MO:
- Monday: Clear skies, but temperatures will plummet to -3°F (-20°C). Highs will barely reach 21°F (-6°C).
- Tuesday: Sunny and bitterly cold, with highs at 21°F (-6°C) and lows at 2°F (-17°C).
- Wednesday: The cold persists with sunshine. Temperatures will remain between 16°F (-9°C) and 0°F (-18°C).
Topeka, KS:
- Monday: Frigid conditions with occasional sun. Highs will peak at 19°F (-7°C), with lows at -8°F (-22°C).
- Tuesday: Sunshine will dominate, but extreme cold remains. Highs: 20°F (-7°C); lows: -2°F (-19°C).
- Wednesday: Sunny but freezing, with temperatures ranging from 19°F (-7°C) to 2°F (-17°C).
Ohio Valley
Cincinnati, OH:
- Monday: Snow continues into early afternoon, adding 4-6 inches. Highs will reach 29°F (-2°C) before dropping to 10°F (-12°C).
- Tuesday: Partly cloudy and cold, with highs at 28°F (-2°C) and lows at 7°F (-14°C).
- Wednesday: Frigid conditions will persist, with some sun. Highs: 24°F (-4°C); lows: 1°F (-17°C).
Northeast
Philadelphia, PA:
- Monday: Snowfall of 2-4 inches is expected early, followed by icy conditions. High: 31°F (-1°C); Low: 20°F (-6°C).
- Tuesday: Windy and partly sunny with highs around 33°F (1°C) and lows at 21°F (-6°C).
- Wednesday: Clear skies but freezing temperatures. Highs: 32°F (0°C); lows: 18°F (-8°C).
Pittsburgh, PA:
- Monday: Light snow of 1-3 inches will make roads slippery. Highs will reach 29°F (-2°C), with lows at 20°F (-7°C).
- Tuesday: Cloudy skies with occasional snow showers. Highs: 29°F (-2°C); lows: 20°F (-6°C).
- Wednesday: Snow showers will continue, with temperatures ranging from 25°F (-4°C) to 11°F (-11°C).
Warnings and Safety Recommendations
Authorities have issued urgent warnings for storm-affected regions:
- Travel: Roads remain hazardous due to snow and ice. Residents are advised to avoid non-essential travel.
- Power Outages: Nearly 250,000 households are without electricity, and prolonged outages are expected. Residents should prepare with flashlights, batteries, and backup heat sources.
- Extreme Cold: With wind chills dropping to dangerous levels, officials urge caution for those venturing outdoors. Layered clothing and adequate heating are critical.
In conclusion, Winter Storm Blair poses significant risks as it progresses eastward. The Weather Channel and NWS emphasize the need for continued vigilance, preparation, and adherence to safety guidelines. Residents should stay informed, monitor weather updates, and avoid unnecessary risks during this severe weather event.