A historic winter storm that could stretch over 2,000 miles and affect more than 35 states is set to hit the US. An expert has now issued a severe warning about the “destructive and potentially catastrophic” storm.

This upcoming weekend, a potentially historic winter storm is expected to sweep across the US. It is expected to create hazardous travel conditions for millions of Americans, affecting more than 35 states.

Major cities such as Charlotte, North Carolina; Washington, D.C; Louisville, Kentucky; Boston, Massachusetts; and the New York City metropolitan area are expected to be hit.

Meteorologist Dylan Federico described the forecasted ice storm as “destructive and potentially catastrophic.”

He wrote on X, “Widespread ice will cripple travel, cause major power outages, and down trees. This is a rare high-impact event — potentially the worst in decades since the Great Ice Storm of February 1994.”

The winter storm could stretch over 2,000 miles. Texas, Oklahoma, and Alabama are three southern states that could have communities paralyzed by freezing rain and ice storms.

Expert issues severe warning for ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ storm

“I think people are underestimating just how bad it’s going to be,” former National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration chief scientist Ryan Maue, now a private meteorologist, said.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning that ice-cold winds can create conditions in which exposed skin can suffer frostbite within minutes, per Fox Weather.

“With the extreme cold temperatures, expect prolonged snow and ice impacts which may include hazardous travel conditions, power outages, tree damages, snow-covered roads, and reduced visibility,” the NWS said in its forecast,” it said.

The governors of Texas, South Carolina, and North Carolina have all declared states of emergency. It allows National Guard Troops, among the emergency officials, to mobilize response efforts.

“Based on current forecasts, the State of Texas is acting to ensure Texans have the resources they need before severe winter weather impacts communities across Texas,” Texas Governor Greg Abbott said in a statement.

Can cause “significant or widespread power outages”

In 2021, Texas was struck by a winter storm that left millions of residents without power for days. Now, officials have once again warned that cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze or even burst.

The cold temperatures are expected to persist into next week.

National Weather Service meteorologist Zack Taylor explained that most areas east of the Rockies will see snow or ice over the next few days, along with bitterly cold conditions.

“We’re looking at the potential for impactful ice accumulation. So the kind of ice accumulation that could cause significant or widespread power outages or potentially significant tree damage,” Zach Taylor told ABC.