Cross-country Storm Brings Snow, Strong Winds for Weekend

Blizzard warnings issued as powerful system sweeps across northern U.S.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:22am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A major cross-country storm system is set to impact much of the northern United States this weekend, bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and the potential for severe thunderstorms. Winter storm warnings and blizzard warnings have been issued across several states, with forecasts calling for over a foot of snow in some areas and wind gusts up to 60 mph.

Why it matters

This powerful storm system has the potential to disrupt travel, cause power outages, and bring dangerous winter weather conditions to a wide swath of the country. The combination of heavy snow, strong winds, and severe thunderstorms could pose a significant threat to public safety in the affected regions.

The details

The first part of the storm has already moved through the Great Lakes and Northeast, bringing widespread strong winds and snow. On Friday, wind gusts over 70 mph were reported in several states. An additional 1-3 inches of snow is expected in Upstate New York and northern New England on Saturday. The second, stronger part of the storm system will sweep into the northern Rockies and Plains on Saturday, then move into the Midwest later in the day and into Sunday. Blizzard warnings have been issued for parts of South Dakota and southwest Minnesota, with forecasts calling for over a foot of snow and winds up to 60 mph. On the southern side of the storm, a line of severe thunderstorms is expected to develop, bringing the threat of damaging winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes.

  • On Friday, wind gusts greater than 70 mph were reported in Ohio, Minnesota, Michigan and Indiana.
  • On Saturday morning, snow continues across Upstate New York and into northern New England.
  • By Sunday morning, snow stretches from South Dakota and Nebraska into the Great Lakes.
  • On Monday, the major storm will continue to move east, bringing snow and wind across the Great Lakes and rounds of heavy rain and strong winds to the Northeast.
  • More severe weather will continue across the East Coast on Monday late afternoon into the evening.

The players

National Weather Service

The U.S. government agency that is responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather warnings.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm system and issue updates on weather conditions and potential impacts throughout the weekend.

The takeaway

This powerful cross-country storm system is expected to bring a wide range of dangerous winter weather conditions, including heavy snow, strong winds, and the potential for severe thunderstorms. Residents in the affected regions should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take appropriate safety precautions.