Millions of people across the Rockies to the Upper Midwest are bracing for a powerful winter storm that is expected to bring heavy snowfall and strong winds. The region is under a winter weather alert, with Blizzard Warnings issued for portions of the Plains and Upper Midwest.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, a potent area of low pressure is rapidly intensifying, drawing moisture from the Pacific Ocean while cold air from Canada leads to a snow outbreak. The storm is projected to impact travel across the region until the start of the new workweek.

Winter weather alerts cover a vast area from the Rockies to the Great Lakes. Blizzard Warnings are set to go into effect on Sunday and Monday, encompassing the central and northern Plains, including Kansas, South Dakota, and the Arrowhead region in northern Minnesota. The National Weather Service warns of challenging travel conditions, including widespread blowing, drifting snow with near-zero visibility and the potential for downed tree branches and power lines.

A larger area, including cities like Bismarck, Fargo, and Minneapolis, falls under Winter Storm Warnings, while Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for various areas, including the Rockies, southern Minnesota, and parts of central Iowa and Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The FOX Forecast Center anticipates the storm to intensify on Sunday, with heavy snowfall increasing across the region. Southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin are expected to face significant travel disruptions. Key highways such as Interstate 80 in Nebraska, Interstate 90 in South Dakota, and portions of Interstate 35 from Iowa to Minneapolis are likely to be affected, as snowfall rates could reach 1-2 inches per hour, with the possibility of thundersnow.

The storm's impacts are set to linger until the start of the new workweek, making travel difficult for many residents in the affected areas. Authorities are advising caution and preparation as the powerful winter storm sweeps through the region.