March Storm Alert: Brace for a Pivotal Weather System Bringing Blizzard Conditions, Tornadoes, and Wildfires Across the U.S.!

CNN

A strong storm is moving across the country this March. It brings a mix of weather threats, including strong winds that can trigger blizzards and dust storms, as well as severe thunderstorms and possible tornadoes.

This storm is a significant challenge for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Staff cuts made during the Trump administration have raised concerns about public safety during extreme weather events.

The storm began in the Rocky Mountains and is expected to intensify as it spreads east through the central United States. Expect severe thunderstorms in the south and winter weather to the north.

According to the Weather Prediction Center, this storm may reach very strong levels by midweek, marking one of the most powerful March storms in years.

Here’s what you can anticipate:

On Monday, winds will ramp up, especially in the Rockies and the Plains. Speeds may reach 60 mph, causing power outages and damage. These winds also pose a fire risk, especially in parts of eastern New Mexico and western Texas, where conditions are very dry.

A spark in these areas could lead to quick-spreading wildfires. The strong winds could also create hazardous dust storms, impacting visibility and making travel dangerous.

Late Monday evening, thunderstorms will develop from Texas to Kansas, leading to a long period of threats such as damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes.

Tuesday: Tornadoes and Blizzards

On Tuesday morning, severe thunderstorms will be active across the Plains. Areas like the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex may see powerful storms right at sunrise.

As these storms move toward the Mississippi Valley in the afternoon, a level 3 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms will cover parts of Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi, where tornado threats will be highest.

Some tornadoes could be strong, rated EF2 or higher. Wind gusts could exceed 70 mph, causing significant damage.

New Orleans will also face severe weather on Mardi Gras, prompting cancellations of some celebrations.

By the evening, storms will spread across the Southeast, potentially losing some intensity but still carrying risks of damaging winds and tornadoes.

Simultaneously, heavy snow and fierce winds will create blizzard conditions in parts of the Plains. A few inches of snow are expected, combined with winds over 60 mph, leading to low visibility and hazardous travel conditions.

Whiteout conditions will make travel extremely dangerous, particularly during the Tuesday morning and evening commutes.

Areas where it’s warm enough to rain will see heavy rain and winds, likely causing downed trees and power lines, impacting both ground and air travel.

The storm will reach the East Coast on Wednesday. More than 24 million people, from Georgia to Pennsylvania, are under severe weather threat, including risks of damaging winds and tornadoes.

Heavy rain and strong winds will affect much of the Northeast while blizzard conditions will continue in the Midwest.

As wind gusts of 40 mph or more sweep across the eastern U.S., air travel, especially in Chicago and New York, could face disruptions. Significant power outages may occur throughout many states.

By Thursday, most of the storm’s precipitation will start to clear, but gusty winds will remain.