In recent weeks, severe winter weather and heavy snowfall have battered parts of the United States. With another significant storm moving in that could dump up to 30 inches of snow in certain areas, continuing what has already been a fierce and exceptionally cold winter, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning.
With severe winter weather and dangerously cold temperatures becoming the norm across many parts of the country so far this year, the NWS has issued a warning about spending too much time outside and offered some tips on how to stay warm.
Winter Weather Warnings
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a series of winter weather warnings and advisories for incoming winter weather affecting more than a dozen states nationwide. The alerts come on the heels of a bout of extreme winter weather that swept across large portions of the country just last week.
In total, the winter weather warnings and advisories span 19 states plus Washington, D.C., covering areas from the Rockies and Midwest to the Great Lakes, Northeast, and mid-Atlantic regions.
States impacted by the warnings and advisories include Alaska, Maryland, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Additional advisories have been issued for Alaska, Iowa, Michigan, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Alaska and Montana are forecast to see the most severe conditions through Monday, Dec. 15, as the storms could dump between 20 and 30 inches of snow in parts of Alaska and more than 20 inches in portions of Montana.
NWS Issues Warning Amid Winter Weather
As this winter weather moves across the country and many regions have been continually hit with extreme weather and dangerously cold temperatures, the NWS has issued a warning about the dangers of the winter weather.
“Cold outside? Avoid the risk of frostbite and hypothermia by dressing in layers, covering exposed skin, and limiting time outdoors,” the NWS wrote in a post on X. “If someone might be experiencing either condition, seek medical attention immediately — and know your actions.”
The NWS warned that the winter weather is especially dangerous for newborns, the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and unhoused individuals.
“Everyone is at risk from the dangers of extreme cold, but these groups are more vulnerable than most. Age and certain conditions make the body less able to regulate temperature,” the NWS warns.
The NWS advised people to limit time outside, but to wear loose layers and cover all skin if they do have to venture outdoors. Additionally, the NWS advises people to consume hot foods and warm drinks, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
