Major Winter Storm Prompting Precautions Across the U.S.

Fri Jan 23 2026 02:20:09 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

With a significant winter storm predicted to bring heavy snow and ice from New Mexico to New England, residents are preparing and taking necessary precautions as states declare emergencies.

As a major winter storm approaches, cities across the United States are preparing for potential severe weather. Hardware stores are running low on ice-thwarting supplies, and many residents are stocking up on essentials. The upcoming weather is expected to create hazardous conditions by freezing roads, prompting local governments to take proactive measures including state emergency declarations.

ATLANTA — At Bates Ace Hardware in Atlanta, bags of ice-thwarting salt have become a hot commodity. Store manager Lewis Pane reported that all 275 bags in stock were sold out within a morning as residents brace for a major storm bringing heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain to a large section of the U.S.

With 30 ice melt orders received before 8 a.m., Payne noted, It's impossible to get right now. We've made special trips to our warehouse to keep up with the demand. Meteorologists warn that this storm could rival the damage witnessed during a major hurricane, affecting areas from New Mexico to New England.

Residents have been encouraged to prepare for prolonged icy conditions, as freezing rain could lead to hazardous road conditions and potential power outages due to downed trees and damaged power lines.

In Carmel, Indiana, officials have canceled winter sports competitions to prevent injuries like frostbite among participants. College games across various states are being rescheduled, with the Texas Rangers also canceling their Fan Fest event.

The National Weather Service forecasts wind chills plummeting below -50°F (-46°C) across the Northern Plains. Meanwhile, truck drivers like Oklahoma's Charles Daniel are preparing by securing their loads and planning for safe routes, noting the critical importance of driving awareness in treacherous conditions.

In preparation, the Arkansas Department of Transportation has started pre-treating roads with salt, while Alabama faces complications from ongoing rain. Maryland’s governor has declared a state of preparedness with heavy snow predicted from Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning. Emergency states have also been declared in North and South Carolina to facilitate consultations with local and federal agencies.