Coast-to-Coast Tornado and Blizzard Threats Intensify with Severe Weather Warnings Today
Severe Weather Sweeps Across U.S.: Blizzards and Tornadoes Threaten Over a Dozen States
A powerful storm system named Lola is battering the U.S., unleashing blizzards across northern states and tornadoes in the South. Over a dozen states face severe weather, with the National Weather Service (NWS) warning of life-threatening travel conditions, damaging winds, and potential power outages.
Winter Storm Lola Blankets the North
Lola, a major winter storm, is slamming the Plains and Midwest with up to 18 inches of snow in Wyoming and wind gusts of 70 mph. Blizzard warnings are active in Kansas City, Omaha, Des Moines, and parts of Nebraska, Minnesota, and the Dakotas. The NWS warns of “treacherous” whiteout conditions, urging residents to avoid travel.
Map showing Lola’s projected path, bringing heavy snow to the Midwest and Plains.
While snowfall totals may remain under 6 inches in areas like Minneapolis and Chicago, the combination of high winds and snow will create near-zero visibility. "Roads will be extremely dangerous,” The Weather Channel cautioned, noting risks of tree damage and outages.
Tornado Watch in the South
Meanwhile, Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas are under tornado watches. The Dallas-Fort Worth area faces 75 mph winds, hail up to 1.5 inches, and possible tornadoes. Over 275,000 residents lost power Tuesday morning, and DFW Airport halted flights due to storms.
A tornado watch spans Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, with severe storms expected.
In Oklahoma, structural damage was reported in Allen, and a possible tornado struck Ada, damaging an elementary school. Arkansas expects storms to roll through western regions by 7 a.m. CT, reaching Little Rock by mid-morning.
Timing and Impacts
- Blizzards: Lola will linger in the upper Midwest through Wednesday, affecting the Great Lakes and Appalachians.
- Tornadoes: Southern states face severe thunderstorms until Tuesday afternoon, with risks easing by evening.
High winds in Dallas-Fort Worth caused widespread power outages and flight delays.
Safety Advisories
The NWS urges residents in snowy regions to stay off roads and prepare for outages. Southern states should monitor weather alerts and seek shelter if tornado warnings arise.
With overlapping threats of ice, wind, and twisters, millions are advised to stay vigilant as Lola continues its path across the U.S.
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