Forecasters at NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS) continue to track a major winter storm that will bring heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain to hundreds of millions of Americans starting Friday, January 23, and continuing into Monday. This is expected to be an unusually large and severe winter storm. 

Dangerously cold air remains in the forecast for more than half of the U.S. population through the weekend and into early next week. The combination of significant snow and ice accumulations and frigid weather could cause power outages and icy roads to linger longer than usual after a typical winter storm. 

Winter storms can cause unsafe travel conditions, prolonged power outages and disrupt routines. They can also create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite and heart attacks from overexertion. 

Prepare now to stay safe and avoid last-minute stress.

1-Know the Winter Storm Risks in Your Area

For the latest on this powerful winter storm, go to weather.gov and input in your Zip Code or City, State to access hazardous weather alerts, as well as the latest forecast from the local National Weather Service office in your area. 

Visit NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center for the latest key messages on this winter storm and its impacts. 

Make sure you have on hand at least a few days' worth of food, water, medications and other basic necessities for yourself, your family and your pets to sufficiently ride out the storm. Check out the NWS Safety Page for resources and tips on staying safe in extreme cold, ice, snow and other winter weather conditions. Forecasts can change frequently, but you can get updates by following local media and signing up for emergency alerts from local officials to get the latest updates. 

Watch for these alert terms: 

• Winter Weather Advisory: Conditions may be hazardous—be aware and cautious.
• Winter Storm Watch: Severe weather is possible—start preparing immediately.
• Winter Storm Warning: Severe weather is expected to begin—act now! If you are under a winter storm warning, find shelter right away.

Be aware of these dangerous conditions:

• Freezing: Freezing rain can cause power outages and disrupt communications. It also increases risks of slipping and falling. While sunshine during the day can help thaw snow, plunging temperatures after sunset may lead to refreezing on roads, sidewalks and other paved surfaces.
• Heavy Snow: Potential snowfall may make travel difficult or impossible in some areas. Some roads could become impassable for several days.
• Extreme Cold: Extended periods of cold can lead to dangerous conditions, including power outages and serious health issues like hypothermia. Vulnerable groups such as older adults, young children and those with pre-exiting health conditions are at higher risk.
• Disruptions: Flight delays or cancellations and road closures are likely, especially Sunday and Monday. Schools and businesses may alter their schedules or use virtual options. 

2-Gather Supplies

Think about what you may need to last several days if the power goes out and you can’t leave your location. Create an emergency kit and stock up now as stores or food pantries may run out of supplies. 

Include items such as:

• Non-perishable food that does not require refrigeration or cooking.
• Drinking water.
• Prescription medications and first-aid supplies.
• Flashlights, batteries, power banks and phone chargers.
• Blankets, warm clothing, extra layers, hand warmers.
• Baby supplies or pet food, if needed.
• Rock salt and a working snow shovel.
• Textured grip shoes to reduce falls on slippery surfaces. 

3-Protect Your Home Against Power Loss and Freezing Temperatures

Winter storms can often cause power outages that disrupt communications, utilities and complicate medical needs.

To prepare for possible outages:

• Keep phones and power banks fully charged.
• Trim trees and remove dead branches that are near your home.
• Have back up medications and alternative ways to charge medical devices.

4-Plan for School and Work Disruptions

Snow and icy conditions can lead to delays, early dismissals or closures for schools and some workplaces.

Families are encouraged to:

• Make childcare arrangements in advance, if needed.
• Check with your child’s school to see if there are remote learning plans.
• Monitor district announcements and employer updates.

Planning ahead can help reduce stress if schedules change quickly.

Need Immediate Help?

Follow your local officials and emergency management agency for additional information on resources to help with winter weather emergencies in your area.  

Anyone can call 2-1-1, a nationwide service that helps people find community resources for food, utilities, transportation and more. 2-1-1 is confidential, free and is run by a network of local organizations.

Prepare now before the storm hits and ensure you and your family stay safe, warm and comfortable. Even if the forecast changes, you will never regret being prepared. 

Visit Ready.gov for more information and checklists. 

Stay connected on social

Join NOAA’s NWS on social media to stay up to date on the latest weather developments:

• Find @NWS on X , on Bluesky at nws.noaa.gov, on Facebook and on Instagram.
• Find and follow your local NOAA National Weather Service forecast office on social media.