Major Cross-Country Storm to Bring Snow, Winds, and Severe Weather

Blizzard warnings issued as storm system sweeps across northern U.S. this weekend

Mar. 15, 2026 at 12:03am

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A powerful winter storm system is set to impact a large swath of the United States this weekend, bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and the potential for severe thunderstorms across the Midwest and Northeast. The storm is expected to bring blizzard conditions to parts of the northern Plains and Upper Midwest, with over a foot of snow and winds up to 60 mph possible. On the southern side of the system, an enhanced risk of damaging winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes has been issued for parts of the Midwest and East Coast.

Why it matters

This major cross-country storm has the potential to disrupt travel, cause power outages, and bring dangerous winter weather conditions to a large portion of the country. The combination of heavy snow, high winds, and severe thunderstorms highlights the need for residents in the affected areas to closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take shelter if necessary.

The details

The first part of the storm system has already moved through the Great Lakes region, bringing widespread strong winds and snow. On Friday, wind gusts over 70 mph were reported in several states. This initial storm is now moving into northern New England, where an additional 1-3 inches of snow is expected on Saturday. The next, more powerful storm system will sweep in from the West on Saturday, bringing blizzard conditions to parts of the northern Plains and Upper Midwest. Winter storm warnings and blizzard warnings have been issued, with the potential for over a foot of snow and winds up to 60 mph. On the southern side of this system, an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms has been issued for parts of the Midwest and East Coast on Sunday and Monday, with the main threats being damaging winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes.

  • The first storm system moved through the Great Lakes region on Friday, March 15, 2026.
  • The second, more powerful storm system will impact the northern Plains and Midwest on Saturday, March 16, 2026 and the East Coast on Sunday, March 17 and Monday, March 18, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The U.S. government agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

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What’s next

Residents in the affected areas should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take shelter if severe weather warnings are issued for their location.

The takeaway

This powerful cross-country storm system highlights the need for communities to be prepared for the potential impacts of extreme winter weather and severe thunderstorms. By heeding weather warnings and taking appropriate safety precautions, residents can help minimize the risks to their safety and property.