2026 US Winter Storm Nightmare: States Buried in Snow and Ice, New York’s Big Hit, and When the Cold Finally Lets Up
2026 US Winter Storm Nightmare, imagine you’re snug in your blanket, but outside, the wind howls like a wolf, and snow piles up so high you can’t see the street. That’s what’s happening right now in America during this huge winter storm in January 2026. It feels scary, like a bad dream, but knowing what’s going on can make you feel brave and ready.
This storm, called Winter Storm Fern, is hitting hard across many states, making people stay inside and worry about power and safety. If you’re curious like a kid peeking out the window, let’s explore the news, what’s happening in New York, and when it might end. We’ll keep it simple, like telling a story to a friend!
Thousands of flights cancelled across the US as massive winter storm hits
A massive winter storm made for a brutal travel day on Monday, with widespread cancellations and delays at some of the nation’s busiest airports.
Widespread snow, sleet and freezing rain threatened nearly 180 million people , more than half the US population, in a path stretching from the southern Rocky Mountains to New England, the National Weather Service said Saturday night.
After sweeping through the South, the storm moved into the Northeast on Monday and was expected to dump about 30 to 60 centimetres of snow from Washington through New York and Boston.
At least seven dead, one million without power as wild storm hits US – Watch on TVNZ+
States Facing the Storm’s Fury: A Big Mess Across America
Oh no, this storm is like a giant blanket of cold covering over 34 states! It started around January 22 and is still going strong as of January 26. From the warm South to the busy Northeast, snow, ice, and freezing rain are causing big problems. In places like Texas, Oklahoma, and North Carolina, ice is causing trees to fall and power outages affecting over a million people. Roads are slippery like a slide, and sadly, at least 13 people have died from crashes or getting too cold.
In the Midwest, like Illinois and Missouri, heavy snow up to 13 inches has buried cars and closed schools. The Northeast, including Pennsylvania and New York, is getting slammed with snow and wind that makes it hard to see anything, a real whiteout! Over 220 million Americans are feeling this chill, with emergencies declared in many spots. It’s like the whole country is shivering together. Have you ever felt that cold tickle in your nose? Multiply that by a lot!
(These pictures show how the storm looks on maps and vehicles in the cold—brrr!)
When Will This Storm Say Goodbye? The Forecast Ahead
Phew, the worst part might be over soon! The heavy snow and ice should stop in most places by late Monday, January 26, or early Tuesday, January 27. In New York City, snowfall could end by 5 p.m. on Monday. But don’t cheer too loudly yet, the super-cold air from the Arctic will stick around for days, maybe until the end of the week or early next week. Wind chills could make it feel like below zero, so icy roads and power fixes might take longer. It’s like the storm is leaving, but its cold breath hangs on. Fingers crossed for warmer days soon!
New York’s Snowy Struggle: A City Turned White
New York feels like a giant snow globe shaken up! In New York City, about 8 to 15 inches of snow has fallen, with Central Park getting over 10 inches. It’s the biggest storm in years, making streets quiet and white. Schools like Success Academy are closed for a “snow day,” and airports have cancelled hundreds of flights. People are staying home, but some brave folks are out shovelling or walking carefully on icy paths.
Power outages aren’t too bad here compared to the South, but winds and cold are making everyone bundle up tight. The whole state, from the city to up north, is under warnings until Monday night. Imagine building a snowman in Times Square, fun, but slippery! No big damage yet, but the cold could cause more trouble if it lasts.
(Look at these snowy scenes in New York, everything looks pretty, but tricky to walk in!)
This storm reminds us how the weather can surprise us, but staying safe and warm is the best adventure. What would you do if snow piled up at your door?
Winter Storm Safety Tips: Stay Warm, Stay Safe, and Keep Your Family Protected!
Winter storms can be exciting with all the snow, but they can also be scary when winds howl, power goes out, and everything turns icy cold. Right now, in January 2026, big storms are hitting the US and parts of the world. Whether you’re dealing with snow at home or just want to know what to do, these simple tips will help you feel ready and brave. Think of them as a cosy blanket of safety for you and your loved ones!
Before the Storm: Get Ready Like a Superhero
– Make an emergency kit: Stock up on food (like canned soup, peanut butter, nuts, and crackers), water (at least a few gallons per person), blankets, a flashlight with extra batteries, a battery radio, medicines, and warm clothes. Keep it in an easy spot so you can grab it fast.
– Check your home: Make sure doors and windows are sealed tight to keep cold air out. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms (they save lives!).
– Prepare your car: If you might need to drive, keep the gas tank full, add winter tyres if possible, and pack a car kit: blankets, shovel, flashlight, snacks, water, and jumper cables.
– Listen to weather alerts: Watch TV, radio, or your phone for warnings from the National Weather Service.
During the Storm: Stay Inside and Stay Cosy
-Don’t go out unless you have to: The safest place is home. Stay off roads so emergency helpers can get through easily.
– Dress warm even indoors: Wear layers of clothes, socks, a hat, and a scarf. Cover your nose and mouth if you step out for a minute.
– If power goes out: Close curtains to trap heat, stay in one room, and huddle under blankets. Never use grills, stoves, or generators inside; they make dangerous carbon monoxide gas. Use them only outside!
– Keep warm safely: Drink warm fluids like tea or soup (avoid too much coffee or alcohol, they can make you lose heat). Eat healthy snacks to keep energy up.
If You Must Go Outside
-Dress right: Wear loose layers, waterproof boots, mittens (better than gloves), a hat, and a scarf over your face. Keep dry, wet clothes make you colder fast!
– Shovel snow smart: Stretch first, go slow, don’t overdo it (it can hurt your heart). Take breaks and get help if needed.
– Watch your step: Walk carefully on ice and snow to avoid falls.
Special Tips for Kids and Older People
Kids and grandparents get cold quicker, so watch them extra closely!
– For children: Keep them inside during bad weather. Dress them in lots of layers and check often if they’re warm and dry. Make it fun: build blanket forts or play games by flashlight.
– For seniors: Check on them every day. Make sure they have warm drinks and easy food. If they seem confused or stop shivering, it could be hypothermia. Get them warm and call for help.
-Everyone: Know the signs of trouble: shivering that stops, confusion, numb skin (frostbite), or feeling super sleepy. If you see these, warm up slowly and get help right away.
If You’re Stuck in Your Car
– Stay inside the car: it’s safer than walking in a storm.
– Run the engine for heat only 10 minutes every hour (clear snow from the exhaust pipe to avoid gas buildup).
– Tie a bright cloth to the antenna so helpers can see you. Keep moving a little to stay warm.
Winter storms pass, and following these tips helps turn a tough time into a story of being smart and strong. You’re already doing great by learning this. Share these tips with family and neighbours!
FAQs About the 2026 US Winter Storm and Winter Storm Safety
1. How many states are hit by the storm?
Over 34 states, from Texas in the South to New York in the Northeast.
2. What’s the scariest part in the South?
Ice and freezing rain are knocking out power for over a million people and making roads super slippery.
3. When will the snow stop in New York?
By late Monday, January 26, but cold weather hangs on longer.
4. How much snow fell in New York City?
About 8 to 15 inches, enough to close schools and cancel flights.
5. Why is the cold lasting after the storm?
Arctic air is staying put, making temps feel way below freezing for days.
6. How many people died from the storm?
At least 13, mostly from crashes or cold-weather accidents.
7. What should I put in my emergency kit?
Food, water, blankets, flashlight, batteries, radio, medicines, and warm clothes—enough for a few days!
8. Is it okay to drive during a winter storm?
No, stay off roads if possible. If you must, go slow, keep a distance, and have supplies in your car.
9. How do I stay warm if the power goes out?
Huddle in one room, use blankets, wear layers, and drink warm fluids. Never use indoor fires or grills!
10. What are the signs of being too cold (hypothermia)?
Shivering that stops, confusion, slow talking, or feeling very sleepy—warm up slowly and get help fast.
11. How can I keep kids safe and happy?
Keep them inside, dress in layers, and turn it into fun with games or stories—no long outdoor play.
12. Why check on older people?
They might not feel cold the same way and could need extra help staying warm and safe
https://mrpo.pk/1-to-save-nature-30-to-destroy-it/
References
– Weather.com: Winter Storm Spreads Ice, Snow Across Dozens Of States
– Wikipedia: January 2026 North American winter storm
– Weather.com: How Winter Storm Fern Could Be Historic
– The New York Times: Snow Maps and More
– Yahoo: Winter Storm Fern 2026 Maps
– Facebook: Winter storm fern affects 35 states
– FreightWaves: Southeast power outages
– Reuters: Winter storm grips much of US
– Instagram: Meteorologists warning for Winter Storm Fern
– New York Post: Winter storm in NYC area live updates
