The next winter storm, which is likely to cause chaos for millions of Americans and bring up to 20 inches of snow to certain locations, is projected to strike more than half of the states in the U.S.
Ahead of the winter storm that is expected to hit the nation this week, major airlines have started to issue advisories and modify booking regulations.
For flights that are rebooked into and out of certain airports, United, Southwest, and Delta have announced reduced costs and travel waivers.
Southern Californians on the West Coast are bracing for the coldest weather in years, with snow and gusts up to 80 mph anticipated in some mountainous areas.
More than 30 million Americans were reportedly under some kind of winter weather warning as of Monday evening, and that figure is anticipated to rise.
Midwest areas like Minnesota and Wisconsin, which might get over two feet of snow in 48 hours, have winter storm warnings and watches issued.
According to Tyler Hasenstein, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, certain areas of central and southern Minnesota are ready for 22 inches.
If possible, avoid traveling from Tuesday through Thursday, Hasenstein said.
The meteorologist’s comments are in line with those made by airlines like Delta, Southwest, and United, who have already posted information regarding travel waivers in advance of the precipitation.
For cities in Montana, Colorado, Minnesota, and Utah, Southwest is now providing a rebooking code.
Similar to this, seven airports in Minnesota, as well as airports in Wyoming and Canada, are eligible for exemptions from Delta.
Parts of southern Wyoming are now under blizzard warnings.
As the week goes on, it’s anticipated that more warnings and watches will be issued.
Residents of Southern California on the West Coast are preparing to stay indoors due to strong winds and very chilly temperatures.
The valley and coastal areas will have wind gusts between 30 and 50 miles per hour, and temperatures will drop to the upper 40s and low 50s.
The mountain and foothill regions might see rain, snow, and winds that gust up to 80 miles per hour.
According to the National Weather Service, “this storm will deliver a one-two punch as the winds will be accompanied by unusually cold air.”
Local government authorities have issued cold weather warnings because of the predicted extreme temperatures and winds.
Children, the elderly, and those with severe medical requirements or impairments are particularly susceptible in the cold. While they are outdoors, more care should be taken to prevent them from being too cold, according to Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County Health Officer.
Some parts of the southeast are experiencing record-breaking high temperatures, while regions in the Midwest and along the West Coast struggle with cold and snow.
This week, Florida is anticipated to shatter a number of heat records.
On Thursday, a high of 91 degrees Fahrenheit is expected in Orlando, officially topping the previous record of 90 degrees established in 1962.
A high-pressure front is to blame for the heat, which will lead Florida and certain Southeast regions to experience extreme heat.
»This winter storm will bring snow and strong winds to 35 states«