Winter Storm Harlow Causes Havoc Across Eastern U.S.

RICHMOND, Va. — Winter Storm Harlow wreaked havoc on travel across the eastern United States on Tuesday, resulting in 700 reported accidents and numerous injuries, according to the Virginia State Police. The storm’s snowfall continued late into the night, affecting major cities including Washington, D.C., where 6.3 inches accumulated. Loretta McFadden, a meteorologist with The Weather Channel, noted, “We’re expecting further snow and ice with another storm arriving soon.” In Iron Gate, Virginia, Harlow’s maximum accumulation reached 14.5 inches.

As of early Wednesday, power outages were reported across Virginia, attributed mainly to icing conditions. Poweroutage.us confirmed that thousands were still in the dark as the new storm approached. Weather forecast models predict that Harlow will be followed closely by another system, named Iliana, set to hit metropolitan areas such as Chicago and New York.

The Winter Weather Advisory for Chicago is anticipated to begin at 9 a.m. Wednesday, with heavy snowfall expected to reach one inch per hour. School closures are already being announced, and officials are monitoring conditions closely as freezing temperatures loom for the region, raising concerns about travel safety on Thursday.

Road crews in West Virginia have been working around the clock to keep major roadways clear as snow falls heavily across the state. Video footage from Boone County highlights the efforts of snowplows battling to maintain passable roads amidst the storm. Authorities continue to advise drivers to remain vigilant and drive cautiously on slick roads.

In response to the unprecedented winter conditions, major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United have issued travel alerts, allowing passengers to rebook flights without fees at affected airports across the northeastern states. Travelers are encouraged to review flight statuses and rebooking policies before heading to the airport.

Winter Storm Harlow has also led to local impacts in educational institutions. Howard University in Washington, D.C., transitioned to remote operations ahead of the snow. Essential personnel are reporting to work, while classes are being conducted virtually. This upheaval reflects a larger trend, as various universities and schools in the storm’s path are opting for e-learning or cancellation of classes.

In Kentucky, officials are emphasizing the severity of the weather. Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency across the state, urging residents to remain cautious and avoid travel if possible. “The key to meeting those challenges is to be prepared,” he stated, encouraging families to prepare emergency kits.

In addition to significant snowfall, the storm brings complications in the form of freezing rain. Meteorologists explain that sleet forms when snowflakes fall through warmer air and partially melt, while freezing rain occurs when melting snow becomes ice upon contact with cold surfaces. The potential for ice accumulation poses risks for travel and electricity, leading authorities to issue warnings regarding road conditions.

Social media is buzzing with images and videos of students participating in snowball fights at Virginia Tech, embracing the winter weather rather than fearing it. “It’s a winter wonderland, and we had to make the most of it,” said student Jake Collins.

As the storm’s aftermath unfolds, several areas are under winter storm warnings, with predictions of more than five inches of snow expected in parts of West Virginia, Kentucky, and Maryland. Significantly, Washington D.C., faces a cold weather emergency as temperatures are projected to drop significantly in the coming days.

Expectations for another winter storm after Iliana add further stresses to already beleaguered infrastructures. Analysts are monitoring evolving patterns, suggesting February may become a peak month for winter storms, similar to the peak times observed during hurricane seasons. A sizable number of National Guard soldiers are on standby across Virginia and West Virginia to assist during emergencies resulting from the winter storms.