A rare winter storm is expected to impact parts of the South, Midwest, and Northeast starting today and into the weekend, bringing a combination of snow, sleet, and freezing rain to areas that typically do not experience wintry precipitation. A surge of cold Arctic air will slide southward late Friday into Saturday, setting the stage for temperatures to fall below freezing across much of the region just as moisture moves in from the west. Winter storm watches, warnings, and advisories have been issued in advance of this winter storm with varying totals.

Meteorologist Patrick Crawford spoke with the National Weather Service in Little Rock, Arkansas, about this upcoming winter storm.

SET-UP

Air that's normally locked up around the poles looks to break off from the region. From there, it will slide southward, invading the southern states. Sub-freezing temperatures will settle in behind this Arctic front. At the same time, a disturbance will roll onshore from Baja California, providing the lift and moisture needed to cause problems.

TIMING

In the South, preparations should be coming to an end as precipitation is starting to fall. Later tonight, the arctic air is expected to reach the Southern Plains, transitioning precipitation from rain to snow or a mix. This impactful weather system will unfold in two waves into early next week. The first wave will impact the South tonight into the first half of Saturday, bringing snow, sleet, freezing rain, and rain. The stronger second wave is set to slide in Saturday night and continue into Monday from Texas to the East Coast. On Sunday, the potential for severe weather will also be on the table along the Gulf Coast. For the Northeast, it will be mostly all snow, although we could see a changeover to a mix for the Mid Atlantic region with warmer air moving in from the south.

SNOW, ICE, AND SLEET TOTALS

The totals of snow and ice are the trickiest part of this forecast. Models suggest snowfall totals over a foot will be possible across the Northeast, Ohio Valley, and Southern Plains of Kansas and Oklahoma. Freezing rain will be highly impactful for portions of Interstate 20 and 85 across the South with accretion over 1" thick. Where the freezing line is will determine your type of precipitation.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

Because snow and ice are uncommon across the Deep South, impacts can be significant even with minimal accumulation. Power outages are possible where ice builds up on trees and power lines, and travel disruptions could occur as drivers encounter slick roads. Residents are encouraged to monitor the forecast closely, limit travel if possible, and take precautions to protect people, pets, and property from the cold. With this storm likely not moving in until at least Friday afternoon, there is plenty of time to prepare. Know what your plans are on Friday and if they are negotiable. Make sure you stay tuned to WeatherNation for all the latest info on what you can expect towards the end of this week.