A major winter storm is on its way, and it’s expected to bring heavy snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures to a large part of the US. Starting Friday and lasting through Monday, the storm will hit areas from Texas all the way to the Northeast.
The National Weather Service says this storm is driven by a low-pressure system pulling moisture from the Gulf of Mexico. This moist air will clash with Arctic cold air sliding down from Canada. Some places, especially in the Northern Plains, could see wind chills drop below minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Even southern states like Texas and the Carolinas might face sub-zero wind chills.
Winter storm watches and emergency alerts have already been issued in more than a dozen states. Nearly half of the US population is under some kind of weather warning. Officials in Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, and other states are urging people to avoid travel and prepare for possible power outages that could last for days.
This storm isn’t just about snow piling up or icy roads. Ryan Connolly, an expert in personal insurance, warns that winter storms like this can cause damage similar to other major disasters. They can overwhelm local resources, especially in places not used to dealing with this kind of weather. Common problems during long freezes include burst water pipes and ice dams on roofs, which often cause costly water damage inside homes. Fires from alternative heating sources and ice-weighted falling trees can also lead to serious losses that are often overlooked.
For insurance companies, this means a surge in claims that will be tough to handle. Connolly explains that winter storms affect large areas and bring multiple types of damage—water, ice, falling debris—making claims more complicated. This can lead to delays and disputes in settlements.
Government agencies are preparing too. FEMA has sent supplies, generators, and rescue teams to key locations and activated response centers to help where needed.
With such a big storm coming, experts say it’s important for homeowners to take simple steps now. Keeping heating systems well-maintained, running faucets slightly to keep water moving, insulating outdoor pipes, disconnecting garden hoses, and clearing gutters can all help prevent damage.
This winter storm is shaping up to be a serious event. Being ready and taking precautions can make a big difference in staying safe and reducing damage when the storm hits.