Winter storm 2026: You’ve seen the warnings. Here’s how to prepare for extreme cold, ice, and snow

Everyone is talking about it in group chats, at the supermarket, and at the gas pump. No, it’s not Heated Rivalry—it is the “monster” winter storm that is set to hit the U.S. this weekend, traveling from Texas across the Southwest, into the Southeast, and finally into the Mid-Atlantic states and into New England.

The storm is forecast to dump a whopping ten to 20 inches of snow, creating dangerous conditions for about half the nation, according to the Washington Post.

Widespread heavy snow, sleet, damaging ice, and a potential nor’easter could affect as many as 230 million Americans from Friday, January 23 to Monday, January 26, bringing temperatures below zero, according to the Weather Channel. While it’s too early to predict the storm’s exact path and snowfall, heavy snow is forecast for Memphis, Nashville, Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York City, and Boston.

How to prepare for the winter storm

The weather could create dangerous travel conditions, both on the roads and in the air, and has the potential for power outages amid freezing temperatures.

Here are some tips from the National Weather Service (NWS) on what you can do to prepare before the storm:

• Make an emergency supply kit with things like a first aid kit, flashlight, cell phone charger, batteries, food and water, gloves, hates, boots and warm winter clothing
• For your car: Get a full tank of gas, snow shovel and brush, blankets, and jumper cables

In case your heat goes out, here’s what to do, according to the NWS:

• Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers to avoid overheating, perspiration, and subsequent chill
• Close off unneeded rooms to avoid wasting heat
• Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors
• Close blinds or curtains to keep in some heat
• Do not run a generator inside your home or garage

The National Weather Service says food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat, so eat and drink lots of water and other non-caffeinated, non-alcholohic drinks to prevent dehydration. Cold air is hydrating.

Stay safe and warm out there!

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