Millions of Americans are bracing themselves as a major snowstorm sweeps across the central United States, while severe weather threatens the southern region. Winter alerts are currently in effect across a stretch of nearly 1,400 miles, from Montana to Michigan.

The storm, which began on Sunday, has brought heavy snowfall and strong winds to 16 states, including California and Michigan. Snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches are predicted in areas from northwest Kansas to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, with some locations facing up to 2 feet of snow. Blizzard warnings have been issued from eastern Colorado to South Dakota, with winds gusting as high as 60 mph, causing intermittent whiteout conditions.

Although snowstorms are not unusual for this time of year in the central US, many areas have experienced a relatively mild winter. Minnesota and Wisconsin, for instance, just had their warmest winter on record, with snowfall below 50% of normal in cities like Minneapolis.

Meanwhile, the clash of cold and warm air in the southern tier of this storm is expected to trigger severe weather conditions. A multi-day severe weather outbreak is anticipated from the Southern Plains into the Deep South. Thunderstorms moving across Kansas and Oklahoma today pose a threat of damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes. As the storm progresses, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi are all likely to experience strong to severe storms along with heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flash flooding.

In the northeast, heavy rainfall has already drenched cities from Baltimore to Boston over the weekend, bringing 2 to 4 inches of rain. Northern New England witnessed significant snowfall, with Albany, New Hampshire receiving 28 inches of snow, while Vermont and Maine saw snow totals exceeding two feet.

As the country transitions into spring, the persistence of winter weather and the emergence of severe storms serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of Mother Nature. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and stay safe during these challenging weather conditions.