What to Know as Snow, Freezing Rain and Bitter Cold Heads Through Much of the US

More winter weather blows into Lowville, N.Y., on Jan. 4, 2025. Cara Anna/AP Photo

A major winter storm began Saturday in the central U.S. and was forecast to move east over the next several days, producing heavy snow, significant ice and frigid temperatures, according to the National Weather Service.

Here is what to know about the storm, which is expected to affect millions in the eastern two-thirds of the country:

Major Winter Storm Sets Up

A large system made landfall along the West Coast on Friday afternoon, bringing rain to the Pacific Northwest with snow expected in the Cascade Mountains, according to meteorologists.