Massive winter storm spreads ice and heavy snow, grounding flights and knocking out power across the U.S.
A sprawling winter storm pushed from the South toward New England on Sunday, leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity and snarling travel with widespread flight cancellations. Forecasters warned that bitter cold could prolong hazards even after precipitation ends.
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A sweeping winter storm battered large parts of the United States on Sunday, January 25, 2026, bringing a messy mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain that stretched from the South into the Northeast. Officials warned of treacherous roads, dangerous cold and lingering ice that could keep conditions hazardous for days even after the heaviest precipitation moves out.
The storm disrupted daily life across a broad corridor of states, as utilities struggled with downed lines and ice-loaded trees. Power outages climbed sharply as the system intensified, and emergency declarations and response preparations expanded across multiple states as conditions deteriorated.
Air travel was hit especially hard. Airports up and down the East Coast and through major hub cities reported cascades of cancellations and delays as aircraft de-icing, runway conditions and staffing constraints collided with heavy weekend demand. Airlines urged passengers to rebook early and check airport status before heading out.
Forecasts called for heavy snow in some regions and significant ice accumulation in others, a combination that can be particularly damaging to infrastructure. Weather officials warned that the post-storm cold snap could slow repairs, keep roads slick, and heighten the risk of exposure for people without reliable heat.
Local and state agencies opened warming centers, staged road-treatment equipment, and advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel. Utility crews were positioned ahead of the worst conditions where possible, but restoration timelines varied by region depending on ice buildup, wind, and access to damaged areas.
Public safety officials emphasized basic storm readiness: keep devices charged, maintain a backup heat plan, avoid downed power lines, and stock essentials in case travel becomes impossible. With the storm’s footprint so large, authorities warned that recovery could be uneven, with some places improving quickly while others face extended outages and blocked roads.