Winter Storm Cora Threatens South with Snow, Ice, and Travel Disruptions

A significant winter storm named Cora is set to bring snow, ice, and travel disruptions to parts of the South, including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and the Carolinas, starting Wednesday night. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm watches for northern Texas, southeast Oklahoma, Arkansas, and northern Louisiana, with impacts expected to begin by late Wednesday or Thursday.

The storm, which has been named by The Weather Channel, could lead to hazardous travel conditions in major cities such as Dallas-Fort Worth, Little Rock, and Shreveport. Freezing rain, sleet, and snow are expected to create slippery roads and potential power outages in affected areas.

“Residents and travelers in these areas should prepare for impacts from this winter storm,” said Jonathan Erdman, a senior meteorologist at weather.com. “There remains uncertainty in exactly where the lines between rain, ice, and snow will eventually set up, but the potential for significant disruptions is real.”

Winter storm alerts may expand eastward as the storm progresses, potentially affecting areas in the Carolinas and Virginia by Friday and Saturday. The Weather Channel advises checking weather.com for updates as the storm evolves.

Winter Storm Cora follows a pattern of recent winter weather events that have tested the South’s preparedness for snow and ice. In 2021, a similar storm caused widespread power outages and travel chaos across Texas and neighboring states.

Local officials are urging residents to stock up on essentials, including food, water, and emergency supplies, and to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. Schools and businesses in the region are also preparing for potential closures.

As the storm approaches, meteorologists are closely monitoring its path and intensity. “Extreme and bizarre weather are my favorite topics,” Erdman added. “This storm has the potential to be both.”