Winter Storm Warnings Announced for 12 States as 24 Inches of Snow, 65 mph Winds Approach

Most of the middle and eastern portions of the United States are bracing for a significant winter storm that could impact 150 million people.

While the major winter storm is supposed to hit this weekend, there's a more urgent threat currently in the works for 12 different states as the National Weather Service warns against another winter storm.

Great Lakes Region Bracing for Significant Snow

The NWS revealed shortwave energy rotating around the base of an upper low stationed over Hudson Bay is set to push a pair of low pressure system through the Great Lakes region resulting in snow accumulation between 6-12 inches with isolated higher amounts especially likely downwind of Lake Ontario, where upwards of 2 feet may occur by Friday morning.

In total, 12 states received winter weather warnings from the National Weather Service: North Dakota, Pennsylvania, New York, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, South Dakota (where winds will top out at 65 mph), Wisconsin, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa and Minnesota, while New York and Michigan are expected to receive the brunt of the snow.

Michigan: The NWS also warned against travel in the region. "If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally heavy snow to dry weather just a few miles away. Visibilities can also vary greatly. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, visibility, and road conditions," it said.

New York: East of Lakes Erie and Ontario are bracing for additional snow accumulations 2 to 4 inches through daybreak today within the most persistent lake snows across central and northern Jefferson County and far northern Lewis County. Lake effect snow is expecged to continue with another 30 inches possible through Friday.

Dangerous Wind Chills Expected

The National Weather service is also expecting dangerous temperatures as wind chills dip well below zero.

"Frigid sub-zero and single digit temperatures will expand from the Northern Plains Thursday into the Mid-Mississippi Valley, Ohio Valley and Northeast by Sunday. This Arctic blast will be accompanied by gusty winds, leading to dangerous wind chills," the NWS added. "The coldest wind chills may fall below -50 across the Northern Plains. Extreme cold warnings, extreme cold watches and cold weather advisories are in effect for parts of the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest beginning tonight."

Preparing for Winter Storms

Those included in the winter weather warnings can receive tips from Men's Journal on how to properly prepare for the freezing cold and heavy snow. "Ideally, when you winterize the garage you will be able to prevent damage to your vehicles, tools, and any other stored items, while protecting any essential infrastructure, like pipes or vents," one article reads.

In addition, winterizing a sprinkler system is a must for those who want to avoid hefty repair bills during the winter season. A full how-to guide explains the best way to properly prepare for the cold.

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