A powerful late-winter storm is expected to slam into large parts of the United States this weekend, bringing a dangerous mix of blizzard conditions, powerful winds, and severe thunderstorms as it rapidly intensifies across the country.
Meteorologists warn that the system, which some forecasters have already dubbed a “March megastorm,” could impact millions of people from the Plains to the Great Lakes and even into the Deep South.
According to the National Weather Service, the storm is forming over Wyoming before moving east across the central United States beginning Sunday, March 15. As the system strengthens, severe weather alerts and warnings are already covering large parts of the middle of the country.
Forecasters at AccuWeather say the storm will rapidly grow stronger as it travels across the Plains toward the Great Lakes region.
“This storm definitely means business,” said senior meteorologist John Feerick, who noted that AccuWeather has labeled the event a “March megastorm.”
Blizzard Conditions in the North
The most severe winter conditions are expected north of the storm’s center. In parts of the upper Midwest, forecasters say snowfall totals could reach between 1 and 3 feet.
Strong winds may make the situation even worse. Gusts exceeding 50 miles per hour could create blizzard-like conditions, drastically reducing visibility and making travel extremely dangerous.
The northern Plains could also face bitter wind chills dropping into the negative 20s.
Ice, Wind, and Storms in the Central US
As the system expands, a sweeping cold front is expected to bring a variety of hazards across the central United States.
Parts of the Midwest and middle-southern states could experience freezing rain and strong winds, raising the risk of icy roads and power outages. The storm’s peak intensity is expected on March 16, when the system is fully developed.
Thunderstorms in the South
Farther south, the storm will bring a different set of threats. Regions stretching through the Ohio Valley, the Tennessee Valley, and into the Deep South could face severe thunderstorms as warm air collides with the incoming cold front.
Meteorologists warn that this type of setup can produce damaging winds and other severe weather risks.
Travel and Power Risks
Experts say the storm’s wide reach means disruptions are likely across multiple regions. Snow, ice, and high winds could make driving hazardous, while strong gusts may damage power lines and cause outages.
Officials are urging residents in affected areas to stay alert for weather alerts and prepare for rapidly changing conditions as the massive storm system moves across the country.