Massive winter storm slams U.S., grounding flights and knocking out power across multiple regions

Travel chaos spreads as the storm strengthens

A powerful winter storm continued to push across large sections of the United States on Sunday, January 25, 2026, leaving a long trail of travel problems, hazardous roads and school and event disruptions. The system is producing a mix of heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain from the South and parts of the Plains into the Ohio Valley and onward into the Northeast, creating fast-changing conditions that forecasters say could remain dangerous through Monday.

Air travel has been among the most visible impacts. Airlines canceled thousands of flights as conditions deteriorated at major hubs, and delays piled up through the day. Airports in several large metro areas have faced periods of reduced operations, leading to long lines, missed connections and repeated rebooking. Officials urged travelers to confirm flight status and to be prepared for rapid changes as bands of snow and ice shift.

The storm’s breadth is a major challenge: the same system is delivering disruptive snow in some regions while laying down dangerous ice in others. Forecasters said the combination can complicate planning for both transportation agencies and utility crews, because plowing, salting and power restoration require different equipment and staffing decisions. In many communities, emergency managers asked residents to avoid nonessential travel, keep devices charged, and have backup heat plans if safe to do so.

Power outages, bitter cold and emergency declarations

Widespread power outages were reported as ice weighed down trees and lines and as strong winds accompanied portions of the storm. Outage totals climbed in multiple states, with particularly significant numbers in parts of Tennessee and Texas, and additional large clusters in Mississippi and Louisiana. Utility companies warned some areas could see prolonged restoration timelines if ice continues to build or if crews cannot safely access damaged corridors.

The National Weather Service warned that the storm’s impacts are not limited to the hours when precipitation is falling. Behind the system, very low temperatures are expected to follow, which can keep roads slick, freeze residual moisture and strain infrastructure. Officials noted that extreme cold can be dangerous for people without reliable heat, and they encouraged residents to use warming centers if needed and to check on neighbors, particularly the elderly and those with medical vulnerabilities.

Federal and state responses have intensified as conditions expanded. President Donald Trump approved emergency declarations in at least a dozen states, and federal resources were staged to support search-and-rescue, logistics and other needs. Local officials emphasized that stranded motorists, downed lines and carbon monoxide risks from improper indoor heating remain key concerns as the storm evolves.

What to do if you’re affected

• Check official alerts frequently; conditions and warning areas can change quickly.
• Avoid driving during ice or heavy snow; if you must travel, bring blankets, water and a charged phone.
• If your flight is canceled and you choose not to travel, request a refund and keep receipts for fees.
• Use generators only outdoors and far from windows; never run grills or stoves for heat indoors.
• Prepare for multi-day outages: flashlights, batteries, medications and a plan for pets.

As the storm moves east and cold air settles in behind it, officials said the safest approach is to plan for delays and disruptions, assume restoration may take time in hard-hit areas, and prioritize staying off the roads until crews can clear ice and improve driving conditions.