Winter weather is engulfing large area of country as 16 states plus DC have declared states of emergency
A powerful winter storm that has more than 150 million Americans in its crosshairs had started sweeping across much of the US on Saturday – packing heavy snow and sleet as well as freezing rain, and the risk of widespread power outages.
Snowfall was already being reported on Saturday morning across parts of the plains, the south and the midwest, including in areas of Oklahoma, Iowa, Tennessee, Kansas, Texas, and Missouri.
The US National Weather Service (NWS) warned on Saturday morning that the powerful winter storm is “underway” with “precipitation already impacting” south-central regions of the country.
Forecasters have said that more than 160 million Americans are expected to be affected by the winter storm. Weather officials warn that widespread, extended power outages are possible – along with major travel disruptions, extensive tree damage and dangerous conditions.
