16 states under winter weather alerts as major storm approaches the US

16 states under winter weather alerts as major storm approaches the US

Last week marked the first official day of spring, however, millions of Americans are still feeling winter weather as the U.S. braces for a major snowstorm to sweep across the country.

On Sunday, 16 states from California to Michigan were under winter alerts as the next big storm will be dropping heavy snow and causing travel delays through Tuesday.

PHOTO: Winter alerts currently stretch across 14 states from Montana to Michigan, spanning a distance of nearly 1,400 miles.

Winter alerts currently stretch across 14 states from Montana to Michigan, spanning a distance of nearly 1,400 miles.

ABC News

Winter alerts currently stretch from Montana to Michigan, spanning a distance of nearly 1,400 miles.

From northwest Kansas to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, 6 to 12 inches of snow is predicted with some locations facing up to 2 feet of heavy snow.

Blizzard warnings are now posted from eastern Colorado to South Dakota. Winds gusting as high as 60 mph will create intermittent whiteout conditions from Sunday through Tuesday morning.

PHOTO: A man clears snow from a sidewalk on January 17, 2024 in North Conway, N.H.

A man clears snow from a sidewalk on January 17, 2024 in North Conway, N.H.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images, FILE

While snowstorms in the central U.S. aren’t rare for this time of year, much of the area affected hasn’t had much winter weather in the past few months.

Minnesota and Wisconsin are fresh off their warmest winter on record, with snowfall less than half of normal in cities like Minneapolis.

On the southern tier of this storm, the clash of cold and warm air, among other factors, will contribute to a potential multi-day severe weather outbreak from the Southern Plains into the Deep South.

PHOTO: A jogger runs as snow falls on the campus of Wayne State University, March 22, 2024, in Detroit.

A jogger runs as snow falls on the campus of Wayne State University, March 22, 2024, in Detroit.

Carlos Osorio/AP

Today, thunderstorms moving across Kansas and Oklahoma will bring the threat of damaging winds, large hail and tornadoes.

Late tonight into early Monday morning, the concern for strong to severe storms moves into Texas, and eventually into Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi during the day on Monday.

These storms will also bring very heavy rainfall, so flash flooding will be a concern in the South.

PHOTO: 14 states now under winter alerts for the next major storm to sweep across the country.

14 states now under winter alerts for the next major storm to sweep across the country.

ABC News

In the northeast, heavy rainfall drenched cities from Baltimore to Boston, bringing 2 to 4 inches of rain over the weekend.

Northern New England also saw hefty snow totals, with Albany, New Hampshire, being hit with 28 inches of snow. Vermont and Maine experienced over two feet of snow.

As a major winter storm approaches the United States, 16 states are currently under winter weather alerts, with residents being urged to take precautions and prepare for potentially hazardous conditions. The storm is expected to bring heavy snow, strong winds, and freezing temperatures to a large portion of the country, impacting travel and daily activities for millions of people.

The states currently under winter weather alerts include Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. These states are all expected to experience varying degrees of snowfall and icy conditions as the storm moves through the region.

In preparation for the storm, residents are being advised to stock up on essential supplies such as food, water, and medications, as well as to have emergency kits in their homes and vehicles. It is also recommended to stay off the roads if possible and to avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storm.

In addition to the potential for hazardous road conditions, the storm could also lead to power outages and disruptions in public transportation services. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather updates and to follow any instructions or advisories issued by local authorities.

As the storm approaches, it is important for residents in the affected states to take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being. By staying informed, being prepared, and following safety guidelines, individuals can minimize the impact of the winter weather and stay safe during this challenging time.