A powerful winter storm is set to impact an estimated 62 million people across the United States, bringing a significant weather disruption from Saturday afternoon through Monday. This marks the season’s most impactful storm to date.

Unlike previous winter storms which primarily affected northern states, this system will bring hazardous conditions to a wide swathe of the country, from the Plains to the East Coast, including areas not typically accustomed to severe winter weather. At least a dozen states will face a potent mix of heavy snow, ice, blizzard conditions, and high winds gusting up to 40 mph. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warns that some areas could experience their heaviest snowfall in over a decade.

The storm’s intensity and widespread impact are expected to cause considerable disruptions, including dangerous driving conditions and widespread closures. The Winter Storm Severity Index predicts major effects through Sunday in parts of the central US.

The storm’s path will bring a wintry mix of precipitation. While the areas at greatest risk are known, the precise amounts of snow, ice, and rain remain uncertain, as small shifts in the storm’s track could significantly alter the outcome. Some regions may transition from snow to an icy mix as warmer air moves in, while others could see a change from rain or an icy mix to snow.

The storm is projected to drop several inches of snow, with the heaviest accumulations expected in the coldest areas, potentially exceeding one foot in parts of Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and West Virginia. Major cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Indianapolis are bracing for potentially record-breaking January snowfall. Kansas City International Airport temporarily closed its airfield due to rapid ice accumulation.

Treacherous icing is anticipated just south of the snowiest areas, potentially impacting travel significantly in parts of Kansas, Missouri, the central Appalachians, Maryland, and Delaware. Governors in Kentucky, Virginia, and Maryland have declared states of emergency or preparedness.

The southern portion of the storm will bring heavy rain and severe thunderstorms to parts of the South, with a high risk of damaging winds, hail, and potential tornadoes. Flooding is also a concern in areas experiencing heavy rainfall.

Following the storm’s passage, a significant drop in temperatures is expected, with some areas experiencing temperatures 30 degrees below normal. This extreme cold will exacerbate the impact of the snow and ice.

The storm is expected to clear the East Coast by late Monday, but the subsequent arctic cold snap will present a new set of challenges.