Rare winter storm targets the South with snow, ice and wintry mix

A rare and impactful winter storm is poised to bring snow and ice to the Deep South beginning Monday evening.

Starting in eastern Texas, the storm is expected to push eastward across the Gulf Coast and Southeast through Wednesday morning, bringing wintry conditions to areas that don't typically see it. Areas north of Interstate 10 are the most likely to see moderate to heavy snow.

In contrast, areas closer to the coast in South Texas, southeast Georgia, and northern Florida could see more of a wintry mix and lighter snowfall accumulations. These conditions, unusual for the area, are expected to create hazardous travel conditions and widespread disruptions.

Snowfall accumulations of a few inches are expected from southeast Texas to Louisiana, southern Mississippi, and southern Alabama, with up to half a foot possible in southern Louisiana and southeast Texas. Light snow may also reach parts of Georgia and the eastern Carolinas, though the extent remains uncertain.

Roadways will likely become dangerous, with icy surfaces and snow-covered paths posing significant risks for drivers. The limited experience of these areas in handling winter weather may further complicate recovery efforts. Travelers should also prepare for flight cancellations and delays as airports in affected regions brace for the storm.

In addition to the immediate hazards of snow and ice, sub-freezing overnight lows are forecast both before and after the storm, which could result in power outages in areas with heavy ice accumulation. These outages could exacerbate the impacts of the cold, leaving many residents vulnerable to dangerous conditions.

The winter storm is driven by a widespread surge of Arctic air that has taken over much of the central and eastern U.S., extending well into the Deep South. This cold air mass, combined with the Gulf Coast's moisture, creates the perfect setup for snow and ice in regions that typically don't see it.