More than 4,000 flights were delayed or canceled on Friday as the nation braced for an “unusually large and severe” winter storm that’s expected to impact more than 170 million Americans.
Travel delays are expected to continue as the storm travels from the Southern Rockies to New England Friday through Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. School and office closures are also being reported across the country as residents prepare for the storm.
Several states are expected to face heavy snowfall, ice and freezing temperatures. Wind chills could even drop temperatures as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit (-45 degrees Celsius) in some states.
A foot of snow is possible in some states, including Oklahoma, Kansas, Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia, according to the service. Major East Coast cities, including Boston, New York City and Washington, D.C., could also see 12 inches or more.
Ice accumulation could also damage trees — leading to widespread power outages — and create “extremely dangerous or impassable travel conditions,” according to the service.
Meanwhile, emergency declarations are already in effect in some communities, and empty grocery store shelves are being reported as residents stock up for the storm.
Key Points
- Winter storm threatens more than 170 million Americans
- Groceries fly off shelves as residents stock up for storm
- Some 4,000 flights delayed or canceled across U.S. today
- Forecast: Some East Coast cities could see a foot of snow or more
- Trump questions 'global warming' ahead of storm, but experts say climate change can intensify snowfall
States declare state of emergency before winter storm
14:51 , Graig GraziosiAt least 18 states have declared a state of emergency ahead of this weekend’s historic winter storm.
Those states include Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
Washington, D.C. has also declared a state of emergency.
Typically, states declare an emergency ahead of a potentially damaging storm event to access federal disaster response funding and assistance.
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02:00 , Rachel DobkinLive coverage of the winter storm has paused.
Check back tomorrow for updates.
Here’s more on the storm that’s expected to affect more than 170 million Americans :
Animal rescue rushes to save over 200 dogs before winter storm hits the US
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02:00 , Katie HawkinsonThe Independent’s live blog coverage has been paused.
What to expect tomorrow
01:15 , Katie HawkinsonMillions of Americans are bracing for a brutal winter storm that’s set to move from the Southern Rockies to New England over the weekend.
More than 170 million Americans are expected to feel the impacts of this storm.
Forecasters are predicting “widespread heavy snow and sleet,” along with “catastrophic ice accumulation” and “dangerous wind chills,” according to the National Weather Service.
The service issued key warnings and forecast maps on Friday afternoon. Here’s what to know:
Viral hack claims a Whataburger cup could help save Texans’ pipes freezing during storm this weekend
00:30 , Olivia IrelandAs extreme weather hits Houston, locals are using a helpful hack to prevent frozen pipes.
The Whataburger Cup has become a legitimate last-resort option, according to deputies from Harris County Precinct 4.
Keep reading:
Whataburger cup could help save Texans’ pipes freezing during storm this weekend
What to know about the use of salt to battle snow and ice
Friday 23 January 2026 23:45 , Katie HawkinsonMillions of Americans are expected to see heavy snow and ice this weekend.
Here’s what experts say people should consider before using salt to battle ice and snow:
Experts issue warning over use of salt to tackle snow and ice at home
Why your weather app cannot warn you about the coming winter storm
Friday 23 January 2026 22:55 , Katie HawkinsonThe weather app on your phone might be convenient, but experts warn it’s not always the most reliable source of information, especially in extreme weather events.
Here’s why relying on human expertise is important as the nation prepares for a massive winter storm this weekend:
Why your weather app cannot warn you about the coming winter storm
What to know about the dangers of heavy snow
Friday 23 January 2026 22:31 , Katie HawkinsonHeavy snow can cause dangers on and off the roads.
The National Weather Service warns that heavy snow “can bring multi-day Power Outages, block emergency routes, and cause Communication Loss from downed lines.”
Residents expecting to be impacted by heavy snow this weekend should pack an emergency kit, secure an alternative heat source and stay off the roads, the service warns.
How to stay safe during a power outage
Friday 23 January 2026 22:14 , Katie HawkinsonWidespread power outages are expected as a severe winter storm barrels across the U.S.
The National Weather Service has shared a series of tips on how to stay safe and warm in the event of a power outage this weekend.
“The cold can be deadly--but even without power, there are still ways to warm things up. Closing blinds and curtains and closing room doors can help contain heat, and stuffing towels in the cracks under doors can help keep the warmth in. Don’t forget about eating and staying hydrated - food provides energy to warm the body,” the service said.
University of Maryland cancels class Monday
Friday 23 January 2026 22:00 , Katie HawkinsonThe University of Maryland has canceled classes on Monday, citing inclement weather.
Snow and sleet accumulations could reach up to 18 inches in parts of Maryland, according to the National Weather Service.
Flight cancelations and delays jump to nearly 4,000
Friday 23 January 2026 21:45 , Katie HawkinsonNearly 4,000 flights have been canceled or delayed so far across the U.S. today, according to FlightAware.
Travel disruptions, including “widespread aviation hazards,” are expected this afternoon and throughout the weekend thanks to the upcoming winter storm, according to the National Weather Service.
In pictures: Americans rush to purchase supplies ahead of winter storm
Friday 23 January 2026 21:35 , Katie HawkinsonAmericans are rushing to purchase salt, shovels and other supplies ahead of this weekend’s massive winter storm.
Texas crews prepare roads for winter storm
Friday 23 January 2026 21:18 , Katie HawkinsonCrews in Texas are preparing the roads for this weekend’s winter storm, according to the Texas Department of Transportation’s Houston District.
Snow, ice and freezing temperatures could create dangerous travel conditions in several states over the weekend.
Air travel has also been impacted, with more than 3,000 flights delayed or canceled so far today. More delays and cancelations are expected throughout the weekend.
Georgia to see worst ice accumulation in over a decade
Friday 23 January 2026 21:01 , Katie HawkinsonThis weekend’s winter storm is expected to bring the most ice to Georgia the state has seen in at least 12 years, emergency management officials told reporters today.
Ice accumulation could reach up to an inch in some parts of the state, according to the National Weather Service’s Atlanta office.
'Stay home,' Mamdani warns New Yorkers
Friday 23 January 2026 20:50 , Katie HawkinsonNew York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani cautioned residents to stay home as a severe winter storm passes through the region.
"I want to encourage New Yorkers to do something that we don’t often have the luxury of doing, which is to take a breath and stay home," Mamdani told reporters Friday.
“Stay indoors, stay off the roads, watch the snow come down, watch the worst possible reality TV show you can find, and take some time away from the roads,” he added.
The city could see more than a foot of snow overnight Sunday into Monday, according to the National Weather Service.
White House monitoring for storm impacts
Friday 23 January 2026 20:39 , Katie HawkinsonPresident Donald Trump’s administration is “closely monitoring” the upcoming severe winter storm, which is expected to impact millions of Americans.
“The entire Trump Administration is closely monitoring the anticipated weather and is undertaking a whole-of-government approach to respond as appropriate,” a White House official said.
Houston schools close for storm
Friday 23 January 2026 20:28 , Katie HawkinsonThe Houston Independent School District, the largest school system in Texas, will close its schools and facilities on Monday, according to its website.
The region is expected to be hit with freezing rain, which could lead to hazardous travel conditions, according to the National Weather Service office for Houston/Galveston.
DC mayor asks National Guard for help clearing snow
Friday 23 January 2026 20:20 , Katie HawkinsonMuriel Bowser, the mayor of Washington, D.C., has asked the National Guard to assist with snow-clearing efforts.
“The Mayor also requested vehicle support from the DC National Guard, including high ground clearance vehicles, to ensure first responders can effectively move around the city throughout the storm,” Bowser’s office said in a statement.
The nation’s capital could get up to a foot of snow this weekend, while surrounding areas in Virginia and Maryland could see upwards of 18 inches.
FEMA reveals winter storm preparations: report
Friday 23 January 2026 20:13 , Katie HawkinsonThe Federal Emergency Management Agency is preparing to assist the millions of Americans who will be impacted by this weekend’s severe winter storm.
The agency has prepared 250,000 meals, 400,000 liters of water and several generators at Camp Minden in Louisiana, according to a memo reviewed by Fox News.
The agency also has dozens of drivers ready to move supplies from storehouses in Georgia, Louisiana, Pennsylvania and Texas, according to the report.
Mapped: More than 12 inches of snow possible in several states
Friday 23 January 2026 20:00 , Katie HawkinsonThe National Weather Service has released an updated map of the estimated snowfall totals expected across the U.S. this weekend.
More than a foot of snow is possible in several states, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York and Pennsylvania.
Major East Coast cities, including Boston, New York City and Washington, D.C., are also expected to see at least 12 inches of snow.
More than 3,000 flights delayed or canceled today
Friday 23 January 2026 19:51 , Katie HawkinsonMore than 3,000 flights have been delayed or canceled so far today.
More than 2,500 flights within, into or out of the U.S. have been delayed so far on Friday, while more than 540 have been canceled, according to FlightAware.
Further travel delays are expected as the winter storm moves across the U.S.
Mapped: Winter weather warnings and advisories
Friday 23 January 2026 19:41 , Katie HawkinsonThe National Weather Service has released an updated map of the winter weather watches, warnings and advisories in effect across the U.S.
How to protect your pets this weekend
Friday 23 January 2026 19:00 , Katie HawkinsonThe ASPCA has released a series of tips on how to protect animals during this weekend’s severe winter storm.
Residents who see pets outside without proper shelter should contact their local law enforcement, the organization said.
Dog owners should also consider jackets or sweaters for short-haired pets. Paw booties can also help protect them from salt and antifreeze products on sidewalks.
How freezing rain could knock out power to millions
Friday 23 January 2026 18:40 , Katie HawkinsonFreezing rain across the U.S. could knock out power to millions of people this weekend.
Here’s how it works — and why officials are urging residents to prepare themselves:
Why freezing rain has millions at risk of losing power — and heat
Major college basketball games rescheduled over storm
Friday 23 January 2026 18:28 , Katie HawkinsonThis weekend’s major winter storm has forced several college basketball teams to reschedule their matches this weekend.
Start times for multiple games — including Wake Forest vs. Duke, Houston vs. Texas Tech and Virginia vs. North Carolina — have been rescheduled to earlier in the day on Saturday.
Mapped: Nationwide temperature forecasts
Friday 23 January 2026 18:17 , Katie HawkinsonThe National Weather Service has released an updated map forecasting temperatures across the U.S.
Several states could see high temperatures in the negatives today. Wind chills could bring temperatures down as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit (-45 degrees Celsius) in some states this weekend.
'Widespread aviation hazards' expected today
Friday 23 January 2026 18:00 , Katie Hawkinson“Widespread aviation hazards” are expected this afternoon as a damaging winter storm barrels across the U.S., according to the National Weather Service.
Many airports are expected to be impacted, and travelers are already experiencing delays and cancelations.
More than 1,800 flights into, out of or within the U.S. have been delayed so far on Friday, while nearly 500 flights have been canceled, according to FlightAware.
Trump warns of cold temperatures and questions global warming
Friday 23 January 2026 17:47 , Katie HawkinsonPresident Donald Trump appeared to question the ongoing climate crisis in a Truth Social post shared Friday ahead of this weekend’s severe winter storm.
“Record Cold Wave expected to hit 40 States. Rarely seen anything like it before. Could the Environmental Insurrectionists please explain — WHATEVER HAPPENED TO GLOBAL WARMING???” Trump wrote.
Experts say climate change can actually contribute to higher snow levels. This is because a warming atmosphere can lead to more water evaporation, and warm air can hold more moisture, according to the Environmental Defense Fund.
“That lays the foundation for more snow: When there’s more moisture in the air, that moisture can fall as snow when conditions are right, making snowstorms more intense,” the non-profit writes on its website.
Washington DC declares state of emergency
Friday 23 January 2026 17:33 , Katie HawkinsonWashington, D.C., has declared a state of emergency as the nation’s capital braces for the upcoming winter storm.
Some areas of D.C. could see up to a foot of snow this weekend. Nearby areas, including western Maryland and northern Virginia, could see up to 18 inches of snow.
Texans brace for winter storm to impact power grid
Friday 23 January 2026 17:11 , Katie HawkinsonThere are growing concerns about how this weekend’s winter storm could impact the Texas power grid.
Just five years ago, a massive winter storm caused statewide blackouts. But officials are hoping this time is different, thanks to some new improvements to the power grid.
"Technically speaking, that means insulating pipes, valves, instruments so they don’t freeze, adding heat tracing, like electric heaters, on critical equipment, protecting sensors, control systems and weatherproofing," Matthew Boms, executive director of the Texas Advanced Energy Business Alliance, told NBC News.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott also expressed optimism that the state’s power grid will remain strong.
"The ERCOT grid has never been stronger, never been more prepared and is fully capable of handling this winter storm," Abbott said Thursday. "There is no expectation whatsoever that there’s going to be any loss of power from the power grid."
University of Georgia tells students to go home for weekend
Friday 23 January 2026 17:10 , Katie HawkinsonThe University of Georgia is encouraging students to go home after their last class Friday to prepare for this weekend’s winter storm.
“Residence halls will remain open for students who choose to stay, but if there are power outages, water line breaks or other complications from the storm, University Housing may need to consolidate those who remain on campus into a limited number of temporary housing areas with emergency heat and meal services,” the school said in a statement.
Ice accumulation, freezing rain and sleet are expected in Georgia this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
Stock up on non-perishable foods, experts warn
Friday 23 January 2026 16:58 , Katie HawkinsonAhead of this weekend’s severe winter storm, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is warning impacted residents to gather supplies.
“Think about what you may need to last several days if the power goes out and you can’t leave your location. Create an emergency kit and stock up now as stores or food pantries may run out of supplies,” the agency said in a Friday statement.
Essential items could include non-perishable food that doesn’t require refrigeration or cooking, bottled water, prescription medications, first-aid supplies, flashlights and power banks.
Grocery stores across the country are already running low on inventory as residents stock up for the storm.
Viral hack claims a Whataburger cup could help save Texans’ pipes freezing during storm this weekend
Friday 23 January 2026 16:42 , Olivia IrelandAs extreme weather hits Houston, locals are using a helpful hack to prevent frozen pipes.
The Whataburger Cup has become a legitimate last-resort option, according to deputies from Harris County Precinct 4.
Keep reading:
Whataburger cup could help save Texans’ pipes freezing during storm this weekend
No traditional snow day for NYC students
Friday 23 January 2026 16:30 , Katie HawkinsonNew York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he’s not expecting to fully close schools Monday in response to the upcoming winter storm.
Instead, schools will be open for either in-person or online classes, Mamdani told Spectrum News NY1.
Texas braces for brutal storm
Friday 23 January 2026 16:21 , Katie HawkinsonTexas residents are bracing for this weekend’s brutal storm, which could bring extreme cold and wind chills as low as minus five degrees Fahrenheit (minus 20 degrees Celsius), according to the National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio.
Hazardous conditions are expected to begin tomorrow.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson declared a preemptive “local state of disaster” to ensure officials can “respond quicker and organize more efficiently behind the scenes— in case a disaster does occur.”
Basketball games rescheduled nationwide
Friday 23 January 2026 16:01 , Katie HawkinsonAn NBA game and dozens of college basketball games have been rescheduled across the U.S. as a devastating winter storm approaches, according to the Associated Press.
This includes the Washington Wizards game against the Charlotte Hornets, which has been rescheduled from 6 p.m. to noon on Saturday.
Animal rescue rushes to save over 200 dogs before winter storm hits the US
Friday 23 January 2026 15:51 , Katie HawkinsonOfficials are rushing to rescue hundreds of dogs in Mississippi ahead of this weekend’s severe winter storm.
Read the full story below:
Animal rescue rushes to save over 200 dogs before winter storm hits the US
Chicago Public Schools cancels class
Friday 23 January 2026 15:38 , Katie HawkinsonChicago Public Schools has canceled class Friday as the region prepares for “frigid temperatures” and wind chills that could reach minus 35 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 37 degrees Celsius).
“There will be no remote learning for students tomorrow — Friday, January 23. We expect that classes will resume for all students on Monday, January 26,” the school district said in a statement.
More than a dozen states declare emergency
Friday 23 January 2026 15:33 , Katie HawkinsonMore than a dozen states have declared a state of emergency as a powerful winter storm threatens millions of Americans.
These states include Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
Forecast: Some states could see a foot of snow or more
Friday 23 January 2026 15:23 , Katie HawkinsonLocalized areas in several states could see a foot of snow or more as a devastating winter storm tears through the country.
Areas in Kansas, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Virginia and West Virginia are among those that could see up to 12 inches of snow this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
Major East Coast cities, including New York City and Boston, could also see a foot or more of snow.
See the agency’s full forecast below:
Flight delays and cancelations begin as winter storm threatens travel nationwide
Friday 23 January 2026 15:10 , Katie HawkinsonThis weekend’s winter storm is expected to cause “widespread travel disruptions.”
Some areas could even see “extremely dangerous or impassable travel conditions” thanks to heavy snow, ice and freezing temperatures.
Flight delays and cancelations have already begun, according to FlightAware.
More than 900 flights into, out of or within the U.S. have been delayed so far Friday, while more than 400 flights have been canceled.
Groceries fly off shelves as residents stock up for storm
Friday 23 January 2026 15:07 , Katie HawkinsonGroceries are flying off the shelves across the country as residents stock up for the winter storm.
How to prepare for the 'severe' winter storm
Friday 23 January 2026 14:59 , Katie HawkinsonThe National Weather Service is warning residents to prepare for “widespread heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain” from the Southern Rockies to New England this weekend.
The day before the storm is set to arrive, the NWS suggests residents adjust their plans, ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and bring their pets inside.
On the day of the storm, residents should remain vigilant and drive only if necessary, the agency said.
Other key tips include checking on neighbors and loved ones, properly ventilating emergency heaters and keeping power generators at least 20 feet away from a home.
Winter storm threatens U.S.
Friday 23 January 2026 14:52 , Katie HawkinsonA massive winter storm is expected to bring “heavy snow and crippling ice” to more than 170 million Americans starting today.
Here’s what to know from the National Weather Service:
