A winter storm warning has been issued for Washington, DC.
A significant winter storm is causing disruptions across parts of the United States, with severe conditions expected to last until early Tuesday. Snow, freezing rain, and icy weather are impacting areas from Ohio to the East Coast, creating hazardous travel conditions and closures.
The storm, spreading from the Midwest to the eastern United States, has brought heavy snow, blizzards, and freezing temperatures. States such as Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland are currently experiencing some of the worst conditions. Snowfall is expected to accumulate between 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) in these areas. Accompanied by strong winds, blowing snow is significantly reducing visibility, creating dangerous travel conditions.
South of the main snow zone, freezing rain and ice accumulation pose additional challenges. Northern Kentucky and parts of southern West Virginia are forecasted to receive more than 0.25 inches of ice. This mix of sleet and ice is likely to lead to power outages and dangerous road conditions.
A winter storm warning has been issued for Washington, DC, remaining in effect until early Tuesday morning. During the Monday morning commute, snowfall rates are expected to reach 1 to 3 inches per hour. Daytime temperatures are predicted to hover around freezing, further complicating travel.
Kansas is among the states most affected by the storm, with a state of emergency declared. In McPherson, Kansas, schools, including McPherson High School, have been closed until at least Tuesday afternoon. A teacher from the area noted that closures were announced a day in advance, an unusual step typically reserved for severe weather conditions. Local medical clinics and hospitals have also scaled back operations, remaining open only for emergencies.
Kansas City is facing its heaviest snowfall in over three decades, with accumulations exceeding a foot (30 to 40 cm). Local officials have described the storm as one of the most significant in the city’s history. The combination of heavy snow and freezing rain has caused widespread power outages and treacherous conditions on roads.
Meteorologists are urging residents in affected areas to stay indoors due to the hazardous conditions. Reports indicate that even snowplows and emergency vehicles are struggling to navigate the roads in Kansas and Missouri. In some areas near the Ohio River, ice-covered surfaces resemble skating rinks. Temperatures are expected to drop further, reaching lows of minus 10 to minus 15 degrees Celsius, exacerbating the situation.
Federal offices in Washington, DC, have announced closures due to the storm. Despite the adverse weather, lawmakers are determined to proceed with scheduled duties. Residents across the affected regions are advised to stay home, avoid travel, and prioritize safety until conditions improve.
