A "massive winter storm" will affect 2,600 miles of the country from coast to coast Tuesday through Thursday. The National Weather Service warned that the storm could bring 15 to 25 inches of snow to parts of Minnesota, especially Minneapolis, according to AccuWeather meteorologist Matt Benz:
There is a high probability that Minneapolis will pick up 18 inches of snow or more from the storm. The February record of 13.8 inches of snow from a single storm is likely to be smashed.
In addition, the agency says, "widespread very strong, gusty winds are expected across the west and adjacent High Plains," which will be accompanied by heavy rain and the chance of flash flooding in the Midwest and plains beginning tomorrow, Wednesday.
Drop in temperatures around the country
As reported by the National Weather Service, there will be a widespread drop in temperatures from Montana and eastern Wyoming to the High Plains of both North and South Dakota and Nebraska.
California won't be spared from the drop in temperatures. According to the meteorological organization, temperatures could be between 10 and 20 degrees below normal.
In addition, severe thunderstorms are expected in Milwaukee, Detroit, and some Boston suburbs. In fact, AccuWeather recommended staying off the roads as bad weather conditions could lead to traffic jams and accidents.
Extreme heat on the east coast
On the other hand, the National Weather Service recorded warmer-than-normal temperatures in February. For example, on Wednesday, February 22, temperatures 20-30ºF above average will be recorded in areas of the southern Plains.
Washington, D.C., could reach temperatures in the 80s on Thursday. Nashville could reach the same temperature on Wednesday and two degrees warmer, 82ºF on Thursday.
In both North and South Carolina, highs could be in the upper 80s and low 90s. The same is true in southern regions of the country and in Florida where there will also be a ris0.k of severe storms.
