Winter Storm Warnings Affecting 13 States as Up to 15 Inches of Snow and Hurricane Force Winds Loom

After last weekend brought severe weather conditions to most of America, it would have been great if the country had been given a break. Sadly, however, another dangerous weather system is set to begin battering many states today with extremely powerful winds, cold temperatures, and heavy snow accumulation.

'Hurricane-Force Winds' Are Set to Batter America

A serious winter storm system is expected to begin impacting the East Coast on Friday night, January 30, 2026. CNN reported on that same day that forecasts predict powerful gusts of "hurricane-force winds" possibly slamming the Southeast. The article specified that "winds gust upwards of 60 mph" will arrive in the coastal parts of southeast Virginia and northeast North Carolina

A January 28, 2026, National Weather Service Prediction Center X post warned that strong winds and snowfall will create dangerous conditions, including reduced visibility and difficult travel. The post warns that the wind gusts and high tides could also bring coastal flooding

Further increases in confidence for an impactful winter storm are noted across the Carolinas with greater uncertainty still farther up the coast. pic.twitter.com/uwOQYg2wuQ

— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) January 28, 2026

Extreme Cold and Snow Accumulations of Up to 15 Inches Are Expected

The winter storm that will begin to affect many Americans tonight is so significant that it is garnering international headlines. For example, the BBC reported on the storm on January 29, 2026, revealing what it is expected to bring. That report revealed that much of the country is expected to be forced to deal with extreme cold, with Florida even being forecast to be deeply affected.

"A freeze warning in Florida warns of potentially record-breaking cold weather Saturday night. Hard overnight frosts will extend to coastal areas which very rarely experience freezing conditions. Snow and ice already on the ground are unlikely to thaw, making the region vulnerable to any additional snowfall."

The BBC's report went on to state that heavy snowfall is forecasted to arrive. "Winter storm watches have been issued for parts of northern Georgia, South Carolina, eastern Tennessee, North Carolina, and southern Virginia. Snowfall in these regions could reach up to 15 inches."

Up to 13 States Will Be Rocked by the Incoming Winter Storm

A January 30, 2026, The Weather Channel report states that the storm's reach will be felt from the Carolinas to New England. That description has serious implications for South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Anyone in those states and surrounding areas should monitor local forecasts and prepare accordingly.