Powerful Coast-to-Coast Storm Affects Over 30 States

A significant winter storm is currently hitting the U.S., with expectations of hurricane-force wind gusts affecting more than 30 states.

The storm, already bringing heavy rains to the Pacific Northwest, has worsened historic flooding in Washington state. By Wednesday, it is anticipated to move into the northern plains and Rocky Mountains, where gusts could reach between 50 to 70 mph. As it travels east over the weekend, it will primarily bring rain along with some snow.

With the surge in holiday travel, these strong winds are likely to lead to delays at airports.

The low pressure system tied to the storm is forecasted to intensify quickly on Wednesday, generating gusts of 50 to 70 mph across much of Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, and the Dakotas. In some isolated areas, gusts may even peak at 80 to 90 mph. The National Weather Service has issued high wind warnings and advisories for Montana, where cold temperatures are conducive for snowfall. The combination of snow and strong winds could lead to hazardous whiteout conditions on the roads.

By Wednesday evening, the storm system should be fully out of the northwest.

Moving into Thursday, the storm’s central low-pressure area is expected to track along the U.S.-Canada border with a fast-moving cold front heading south. High winds and snow will pose a significant risk for motorists and travelers in Iowa, Minnesota, and the Dakotas.

According to the FOX Prediction Center, rain is anticipated to begin early Thursday in Minnesota, Michigan, and the Dakotas, transitioning to snow later in the day. This may bring back dangerous travel conditions going into Thursday night.

A cold front will also usher in rain to the lower Midwest, Mississippi River Valley, and parts of the South on Thursday.

By Thursday evening, rain is expected across Arkansas, southern Missouri, and the Tennessee Valley, potentially leading to airport delays throughout a large portion of the central United States.

The storm’s final phase will reach the East Coast late Thursday into Friday as a robust cold front moves across the area. Widespread rain is predicted from Maine to Florida come Friday morning. In northern New England, if it rains on the snow-covered ground, flash flooding could become a risk due to quick runoff. A Level 1 flash flood threat has been issued for parts of northern Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire.

Meanwhile, along the northeastern coast, heavy rain and strong winds may disrupt air travel at some of the busiest airports in the country. To the south, warmer air could lead to isolated severe thunderstorms in Kentucky and Tennessee Friday morning.