A strong winter storm is moving through the US, causing emergency declarations, travel warnings, and widespread concern about power outages as the grip of Arctic cold continues to tighten on the nation.
Over half of the US is now under alert as the storm system extends from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Lakes, with heavy snow, sleet, freezing rain, and low temperatures. According to Reuters, at least 14 states, along with Washington, DC have declared weather emergencies in anticipation of worsening conditions.
Early snowfall signals intensifying system
Some areas in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas experienced a new fall of snow on Friday, which was considered an early indication of the massive storm that is expected to develop over the weekend. According to reports, forecasters have indicated that the combination of snow and Arctic air could significantly affect life in the central and eastern US.
Take this storm seriously, folks.
— National Weather Service (@NWS) January 23, 2026
Moderate to major impacts are expected from the Central US through to the Northeast today through the weekend.
- Hazardous to impossible driving conditions are expected. Avoid travel if at all possible.
- Widespread closures and disruption to… pic.twitter.com/bR76NpsrEy
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Panic buying empties grocery shelves
As storm warnings were made, residents rushed to stock up on essentials, triggering panic buying across several states. Grocery stores in Mississippi, Texas, and Washington, DC saw shelves rapidly cleared, with basic supplies like water and milk running out, reports from Fox Business said. Items such as eggs, sausages, and hot dogs were also in short supply. Other items that were in short supply included eggs, sausages, and hot dogs.
Videos circulating online showed the empty shelves of stores and the worried crowd of shoppers in New York City.
Shelves emptied in Mamdani NYC by panic buyers bracing for historic Arctic storm pic.twitter.com/9cPCphInK4
— RT (@RT_com) January 24, 2026
Power outage fears grow
However, warnings have been issued by officials and meteorologists about the potential damage to power lines caused by the freezing rain and heavy snowfall, which may leave homes without electricity for days. Cities such as Nashville and Charlotte have asked residents to be prepared for power outages, frozen pipes, and dangerous road conditions, as reported by Bloomberg.
In Dallas, AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham cautioned that power cuts could last “several days” as ice accumulation threatens power lines, Reuters reported.
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Flights cancelled, travel plans disrupted
The aviation industry has also been affected. Airlines have put out advisories to prepare for flight cancellations and delays. According to data from the flight tracking website FlightAware, as reported by news agency Associated Press (AP), over 1,000 flights were delayed or cancelled on Friday, and over 2,300 flights were cancelled on Saturday. A large number of these cancellations were attributed to airports in the Dallas area.
Cold to linger even after storm passes
While forecasters say the worst of the snow and ice could ease by Monday, freezing temperatures are expected to persist beyond the weekend. The storm has drawn comparisons to the deadly 2021 winter event that left millions without power, underscoring the seriousness of the current threat.
