Snow, Winter Storm Spark Rush for Salt, Supplies Nationwide/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A powerful winter storm is set to hit much of the U.S., bringing snow, ice, and dangerous cold from New Mexico to New England. Officials warn of power outages, impassable roads, and wind chills as low as minus 50°F. Residents are rushing to stock up on essentials ahead of the storm’s arrival.
Winter Storm Quick Looks
- Storm to hit wide swath of U.S. from Friday onward.
- Salt, batteries, flashlights, and “ice melt” selling out fast.
- Temperatures will remain low, keeping ice on roads and trees.
- Dangerous wind chills below -50°F forecasted in Northern Plains.
- Governors in NC, SC, and MD declare states of emergency.
- Events and sports games postponed or canceled in multiple states.
- Truckers, hardware stores, and transportation crews prepping early.
- Ice buildup may lead to fallen trees and power outages.
- Alabama, Arkansas, and Oklahoma already treating roads with brine.
- National Guard on alert to assist emergency response efforts.
Deep Look: Winter Storm Sparks Emergency Declarations, Travel Warnings, and Supply Rush Across U.S.
ATLANTA — As a major winter storm threatens to sweep across a broad stretch of the United States, from New Mexico to New England, Americans are racing to prepare for what meteorologists warn could be a days-long barrage of snow, ice, and dangerously low temperatures.
From hardware stores in the Deep South to highways in the Midwest, people are scrambling to buy supplies, treat roads, and adjust travel plans ahead of the storm’s anticipated arrival on Friday. Officials warn that its impact could rival that of a major hurricane in scope and severity.
Ice Melt, Batteries, and Brine Fly Off Shelves
In Atlanta, Bates Ace Hardware sold out of all 275 bags of ice-thwarting salt in a single morning, according to store manager Lewis Payne, who said customers were placing online orders for “ice melt” before sunrise.
“It’s impossible to get right now,” Payne said. “We’ve had to make special warehouse trips just to keep up.”
Salt and brine are being used to pre-treat roads across multiple states, with public works departments working overtime to get ahead of the storm. But some, like Alabama’s Department of Transportation, are struggling to keep brine on the roads as rain washes it away before freezing temperatures arrive.
“A quarter-inch of ice can be extremely hazardous,” said Seth Burkett, a spokesperson for the Alabama DOT. “We’re urging people to stay home if roads freeze.”
Dangerous Cold, Cancelled Events, and Travel Disruptions
According to the National Weather Service, the storm could bring wind chills below -50°F (-46°C) in the Northern Plains. Even southern states are bracing for freezing temperatures and sub-zero wind chills.
In Carmel, Indiana, the city canceled its Winter Games, including events like “human curling” and ice trike relays, citing safety concerns about frostbite and hypothermia.
Colleges and professional sports teams are postponing games, while the Texas Rangers canceled their annual Fan Fest. These precautions reflect growing anxiety over icy roads, power outages, and the potential for dangerous accidents.
In Arkansas, more than 10 inches of snow is expected in some areas, prompting the state’s Department of Transportation to begin brining roads early in the week.
Truck Drivers and Residents Brace for the Worst
Truck drivers are preparing for difficult travel conditions, especially in the Southern Plains and Midwest. Charles Daniel, a long-haul driver from Oklahoma, said he plans to load extra freight before the storm hits.
“You’ve got to be weather aware,” Daniel said. “One mistake can literally kill somebody.”
Daniel explained that truckers must avoid parking lots, sloped docks, and narrow neighborhoods in icy weather. He keeps extra clothing, jackets, and water on hand in case he gets stranded—knowing that tow trucks might not arrive for hours.
Meanwhile, residents across the South and Midwest are stocking up on flashlights, batteries, and emergency supplies. In Atlanta, Wendy Chambers stopped by the hardware store to prepare for potential power outages.
“We’re going to be ready,” she said, holding her granddaughter’s hand. “We’ve got games, we’ve got books—we’ll be okay.”
States Declare Emergency as Storm Nears
Officials in Maryland, North Carolina, and South Carolina have declared states of emergency, making it easier for agencies to respond quickly and deploy resources like the National Guard if necessary.
In Maryland, snow and ice are expected by Saturday evening, with peak conditions forecast for Saturday night through Sunday morning. The governor has activated emergency preparedness measures statewide.
With transportation already impacted, governors are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for extended power outages, downed trees, and hazardous road conditions.
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