A powerful snowstorm has unleashed its wrath upon the Midwest, leading to over 2,000 flight cancellations nationwide on Friday. As blizzard warnings persist in the region, the South and Northeast are bracing themselves for their own share of rough weather.

The Midwest, particularly the Great Lakes area, is currently experiencing whiteout conditions, heavy snowfall, wind gusts of up to 50mph, and limited visibility, causing havoc during rush hour. The National Weather Service in Des Moines has strongly advised drivers to stay off the treacherous roads as Monday's Iowa caucuses approach.

Illinois has also been greatly affected by the extreme weather, resulting in travel disruptions via both road and air. Snow and ice prompted a ground stop at Chicago O'Hare International Airport earlier in the day. The airport, along with Chicago Midway International Airport, currently holds the highest number of flight cancellations in the country.

The snowfall is expected to continue through Saturday, with the Midwest predicted to receive six to twelve inches of snow in total. Meanwhile, the South is already facing severe storms extending from Atlanta to Raleigh, North Carolina, with damaging winds and a possibility of tornadoes. The storm will eventually move into the Northeast overnight, bringing heavy rain and strong winds of up to 40mph to Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston.

In addition to the precipitation, the Northeast is grappling with swollen rivers due to recent rainfall, exacerbating the risk of flooding. New Jersey's Passaic River reached its crest on Thursday night, amplifying concerns. Flash flooding, river flooding, and coastal flooding are all potential threats throughout the weekend.

Following the storm's departure, a significant arctic blast will descend upon the affected regions, subjecting millions to brutally cold temperatures this weekend and early next week. Wind chill values as low as minus 60 degrees are anticipated in Montana, and minus 40 degrees across the central and northern Plains.

Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has issued warnings of "potentially dangerous and life-threatening blizzard-like conditions" along Lake Erie and Lake Ontario on Saturday night and Sunday. Residents are advised to prepare for freezing temperatures, possible power outages, and up to a foot of snowfall. Governor Hochul strongly urged Buffalo Bills fans to prioritize their safety and enjoy the game from home, emphasizing the need for extreme caution if attending.

The bone-chilling cold will persist across the Plains and Midwest on Monday, coinciding with the Iowa caucuses where the wind chill is expected to reach minus 25 degrees. Meanwhile, the South, ranging from Texas to Tennessee, may experience the development of snow and ice on Sunday and Monday.

As this severe winter weather continues to impact multiple regions, travelers and residents are advised to stay updated on official weather reports and exercise caution while navigating the hazardous conditions.