New Winter Storm Warnings for 15 States as 8 Inches of Snow and 50 MPH Winds Bear Down
During an already tough winter season, the country has been slammed with relentless storms that have created a lot of record-breaking effects. Unfortunately, more is on the way, with 15 states bracing for heavy snow, sub-zero temperatures, and powerful winds.
Winter Storm Threat in 15 States: 8 Inches of Snow, 50 MPH Gusts, and −40°F Temperature
A National Weather Service Prediction Center X post from February 4, 2026, highlighted forecasts of winter storms that will arrive in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic from February 6 to February 9. It warned of strong winds with gusts potentially reaching 50 mph that are expected to create snow squalls and blowing snow, making travel hazardous.
On February 4, 2026, Yahoo! News covered a winter storm that is heading for Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. That article noted that the Mid-Atlantic region of America could see up to 8 inches of snow accumulation in some areas.
Newsweek reported on February 3, 2026 that storm conditions are heading for Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia over this weekend. Wind chills could drop to −40°F in Northern Vermont and −30°F across Northern and Central New York, western Massachusetts, parts of New Hampshire, much of Vermont, and part of Maine.
Between those reports, the following 15 states (when you include Washington, D.C.) are expected to see serious winter storms between February 5, 2026 and February 9, 2026.
- Washington D.C.
- Maryland
- Virginia
- Delaware
- Pennsylvania
- New Jersey
- West Virginia
- Vermont
- New York
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- Maine
- Indiana
- Ohio
- Kentucky
Build Your Winter Driving Survival Kit: Essentials to Stay Safe in Heavy Snow and High Winds
With the National Weather Service Prediction Center warning of dangerous travel this weekend, anyone who must hit the roads should be prepared. Poor visibility combined with extreme cold can turn deadly fast. Thankfully, a Men's Journal article outlined how to create a winter storm travel kit using guidance from the Canadian Automobile Association.
Winter Storm Travel Kit Recommended Items:
- Flashlight (preferably crank-type, because batteries don’t last long in extreme cold)
- Reflective safety triangles or flares
- Small first-aid kit
- Snow brush and scraper
- Traction aids
- Small shovel with long handle
- Bag of abrasive material: sand, kitty litter (avoid road salt, which can cause your vehicle to rust)
- Plenty of windshield washer fluid
- Booster cables
- Gas-line antifreeze
- Lock de-icer (in extreme cold, keep it with you, rather than in your vehicle!)
- Paper towels
- Small tool kit (screwdriver, pliers, etc.)
- Extra fuses (for the vehicle’s electrical system)
- Warm blanket
- Extra socks, boots and gloves
- Hand and foot warmers
- Bottles of water
- Granola bars