January 9, 2025 - Winter Storm Cora has unleashed its fury across a wide swath of the United States, bringing rare snow, sleet, and freezing rain to southern and midwestern states unaccustomed to such severe winter weather. As of Thursday, the storm has impacted at least 19 states, with varying degrees of snow accumulation and ice threats.
Texas to Virginia Under Siege The storm is expected to continue its eastward trek, with significant snow accumulations predicted from Oklahoma to North Carolina. Cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, Little Rock, Nashville, Atlanta, and Charlotte are bracing for a mix of winter precipitation that could snarl traffic and lead to power outages. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings, watches, and advisories across these areas, with some regions expecting up to 12 inches of snow.
Impact on the South In the South, where snow is a rare occurrence, states like Georgia and Florida are preparing for potential ice and freezing rain. Atlanta and Birmingham are among the cities under winter alerts, with officials urging caution on the roads and advising residents to prepare for potential disruptions.
Midwestern States Not Spared Missouri to Virginia have already seen the effects of Winter Storm Cora, with power outages reported from previous storms compounding the challenges. The storm's path is set to affect areas from Texas to the Carolinas, with icy conditions potentially causing more outages.
Preparations Underway State and local governments are mobilizing, with schools closing and emergency services on high alert. Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel as conditions are expected to deteriorate, especially in the evening hours of Thursday into Friday. The storm's impact is not just on travel but also on power grids, with warnings issued for potential outages due to ice accumulation on power lines.
Looking Ahead As Winter Storm Cora moves out, the focus will shift to recovery and cleanup, with forecasts indicating that the storm will exit by late Friday night, moving into the western Atlantic. However, the cold air mass could linger, posing continued risks for icy conditions even after the snow stops.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops, and ensure your preparedness kits are ready for any extended power outages or travel delays. Remember to keep an eye on local weather forecasts and heed the advice of local authorities.
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