Winter Storm Blair brings severe winter weather to the United States, prompting warnings and preparations across numerous states. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a stark warning, stating that travel will be “very difficult and extremely dangerous” in areas anticipating heavy snowfall and significant ice accumulation. Power outages and tree damage are also considered highly likely due to ice buildup. AccuWeather’s lead long-range expert, Paul Pastelok, predicts this January could be the coldest since 2011 for the entire country.
Currently, fifteen states are under winter storm warnings, including Kentucky, Indiana, Maryland, West Virginia, Kansas, Montana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Alaska, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Nebraska. The NWS forecasts a 60% to 90% chance of at least eight inches of snow across a large swathe of land from central Kansas to Indiana. Some areas, particularly Kansas and Missouri, could see up to fourteen inches of snow—potentially the worst snowfall in at least a decade for these regions.
To prepare for Winter Storm Blair, the NWS strongly urges postponing non-essential travel. However, if travel is unavoidable, drivers should exercise extreme caution. Maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding sudden braking or acceleration, and allowing extra travel time are crucial. Vehicles should be winterized and in good working order, and an emergency kit containing a flashlight, food, and water should be kept readily available. In areas expecting ice accumulation, a more comprehensive winter storm kit is recommended, including tire chains, booster cables, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, and a first aid kit. These precautions are vital to ensure safety and preparedness during this severe weather event.