Winter Weather Warnings Announced for 8 States as 50 mph Winds, Dangerous Cold Approach

On Monday, Feb. 2, and running through Wednesday, Feb. 4, the National Weather Service (NWS) continued to issue winter storm warnings for areas of the U.S. that haven't escaped winter's hold yet.

Just when you thought spring was on the way, Mother Nature decided that winter is here to stay. Now, a widespread winter weather system is moving across multiple states, bringing dangerous wind gusts and record-breaking low temperatures, according to research from the NWS.

Snow has even fallen in areas of the U.S. not used to it, such as the Carolinas and Florida. "Sunrise reveals the snow-covered landscape across the Carolinas this morning," the NWS reported on Monday, Feb. 2. "Northwest winds are pushing cold air out over the Atlantic - leading to the expansive clouds we see from our NOAA satellites GOES-19 satellite."

Winter Weather Warnings to Start February 2026

Winter weather warnings are hitting five states as February begins and special weather statements are being announced in multiple other states. The warnings have been issued to millions of residents across Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alaska and Montana, with the NWS stating that the "extreme cold" coming with this storm may cause "frostbite and hypothermia," even with brief exposure.

The dangerously cold weather is expected to last through early Wednesday, Feb. 4, in impacted areas. As for wind, Alaska is bracing for the worst of it, with 50 mph winds expected early in the week, according to their weather research.

"Snow and ice will linger, with refreezing tonight making travel hazardous," the NWS in Raileigh, North Carolina, announced. "Wind chills will drop to the single digits to near zero late tonight/early Monday. Use caution on roads and dress in warm layers."

The winter weather marks a chance for areas, too, with Florida even reporting snow. "Coastal areas of West Central and Southwest Florida from Levy County to Lee County all reported snow flurries," the NWS in Tampa Bay stated.

So, residents in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alaska and Montana should brace for more cold weather and strong winds through Wednesday, Feb. 4. But, other states are also being warned of dangerous weather this week.

Special weather statements have been issued for a handful of states in the Midwest, including Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. "Occasional light snow will move through Southwest Lower Michigan this morning," the NWS in Michigan said in a statement. "Three to 5 hours of snow will occur at any one location. Snowfall will range from trace amounts to possibly an inch or two towards Lake Michigan. In the wake of the heavier snow a period of freezing drizzle may occur, especially from mid morning through early afternoon."

What Does a Winter Storm Warning Mean?

What is a winter storm warning? According to research from the NWS, a winter storm warning means that heavy snow of at least six inches in 12 hours, or at least eight inches in 24 hours, is expected.

"It can also be issued if sleet accumulation will be at least half an inch," they add. Also, an ice storm warning means that ice accumulation of at least 1/4 inch is projected.

Experts Give Advice for Cold Weather

The experts at the NWS say that when the weather dips, wearing the appropriate clothing is key.

"If you or someone you care about must venture outdoors during extreme cold this winter, dress in layers. Cover exposed skin to reduce your risk of frostbite or hypothermia," they explain. "Try to seek shelter from the wind as much as possible while outside. Once inside again, change into dry clothing immediately if you are wet. Watch for frostbite and hypothermia, and take immediate action upon the first detection of either."