It may not be snowing outside your window yet, but the storm is already on the way and it is coming in strong. It will be a winter storm moving across the country, and at least 15 states are on alert, with forecasts ranging from 30 centimeters of snow to up to 90 centimeters in some areas.
The warnings are coming from the National Weather Service, and the message is basically to stay at home because things could get very bad in just a few hours. Blizzards, zero visibility, impossible roads, and power outages, especially in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region.
What is happening?
The Weather Service has warned that what is coming is dangerous and not just a threat. There will be several snowfalls and wind gusts exceeding 60 km/h, and on top of that, temperatures will drop sharply. There will be significant accumulations, and they have warned that Wisconsin and Michigan could experience the “lake effect” when cold air passes over unfrozen lakes, picks up moisture, and causes intense and very localized snowfall.
Most affected states
- Minnesota
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- New York
In the Great Lakes region, the combination of Arctic air and relatively warm water will cause snow to fall for hours.
Are there risks?
Yes, of course, any severe weather event brings many risks. One of the most feared scenarios is the so called whiteout, when you see only white and nothing else, making it impossible to drive even if you have experience driving in snow.
The NWS recommendation is not to travel unless it is completely essential.
Power outages, canceled flights
The weight of the snow, combined with strong winds, can bring down trees, poles, and power lines. This means power outages are likely, along with massive flight cancellations, train delays, and supply problems in rural areas. We know these are not the best dates for this to happen, but the weather is unpredictable.
Why is this storm different from others?
It is not just how much snow will fall, but the combination of heavy snow, very strong winds with blizzard conditions, extreme cold, and above all, the fact that it is expected to last a long time. Some meteorologists warn that in very specific locations the official warnings could fall short, and that 60 centimeters could turn into 90 centimeters of snow.
Recommendations
- Have food, water, and flashlights ready
- Keep external batteries charged
- Make sure your phone has enough battery
- If your area often loses power, think about safe alternative heating
- Follow only official sources and real time updates
Winter has arrived
And get ready, because this season these extreme weather events are going to become more frequent, and we will need to be well prepared for what is coming. Remember to take maximum precautions if you need to travel and pay attention to official warnings. If it is time to stay at home to ring in the New Year, that is fine. Just like during COVID-19, we can make a video call to celebrate the start of the year, but do not put yourself at risk on the road.
WPC has begun issuing Key Messages for a powerful winter storm that will produce numerous weather hazards from the Northern Plains & Great Lakes into the Northeast beginning Sunday & continuing into Monday. Treacherous travel conditions are likely. pic.twitter.com/uC6IIoCvHv
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) December 26, 2025