A powerful winter storm system that rapidly intensified into a bomb cyclone is battering the US East Coast with heavy snowfall, frigid temperatures, and dangerous high winds, affecting millions of Americans in major metropolitan areas from Washington D.C. to Boston.
The storm, which first brought heavy snow across the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes region, underwent rapid intensification as it moved eastward, meeting the criteria for a bomb cyclone when its central pressure dropped dramatically. Meteorologists warn that the system is delivering blizzard-like conditions to parts of the Northeast.
Major cities in the storm's path include Detroit, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Buffalo, Syracuse, New York City, and Boston. Authorities have issued winter storm warnings across multiple states, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for potential power outages.
Areas downwind of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario are expected to receive upwards of a foot of snow over the next couple of days due to lake-effect snow enhancement. Some regions could see even higher totals as the cold air mass moves over the relatively warm lake waters.
Airlines have canceled hundreds of flights at major airports, and road conditions have deteriorated rapidly in affected areas. Emergency services are on high alert, with crews working to keep major highways passable and respond to weather-related incidents.
Residents are advised to stay indoors, keep emergency supplies handy, and check on elderly neighbors. The storm is expected to gradually weaken as it moves offshore over the next 24 to 48 hours.
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