A massive winter storm is set to hit the United States, impacting an estimated 62 million people as it brings severe thunderstorms, heavy snowfall, and ice.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm, described as the most significant in over a decade, will start moving through the central part of the country on Saturday afternoon and is expected to continue until Monday, January 6, 2025.

The NWS has issued warnings for states not typically accustomed to extreme weather, including Mississippi and Florida, forecasting treacherous conditions. This event could deliver the heaviest snowfall many have witnessed in over ten years, with temperatures predicted to dip significantly below historical averages.

Forecaster Dan DePodwin from AccuWeather cautioned that this storm could lead to the coldest January for the U.S. since 2011, with frigid conditions expected to linger for up to a week. The NWS has expressed concerns over potential whiteout conditions, which could render travel extremely hazardous, leading to impassable roads and a high risk of motorists becoming stranded.

Authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant, keep a close eye on weather updates, and prepare for potential impacts from this historic winter storm. (ILKHA)