More than 160 million people in the United States are bracing for a severe winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, freezing rain, and sub-zero temperatures, beginning Friday. The National Weather Service (NWS) warned of "extremely dangerous" conditions as the storm tracks eastward from the High Plains and Rockies.

The Arctic blast accompanying the storm poses a significant threat, with the NWS cautioning that sub-zero temperatures and wind chills could lead to "a life-threatening risk of hypothermia and frostbite to exposed skin." Transportation officials across the U.S., including airport authorities in major cities, have issued warnings about potential travel disruptions, delays, and cancellations throughout the weekend. The disruption from heavy snowfall could cause widespread power outages and travel disruption.

The winter storm is forecast to move slowly across the U.S., blanketing cities including Memphis, Nashville, Washington DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York with snow. Heavy snow is predicted through the Southern Rockies and Plains, into the Mid-Atlantic and reaching the Northeast.

Such widespread winter weather events are not unique to the United States. Similar cold weather outbreaks have impacted various regions globally, from Europe to East Asia, highlighting the universal challenges posed by extreme weather. In Europe, for example, severe winter storms have historically disrupted transportation networks and energy supplies, prompting governments to implement emergency response measures. In East Asia, countries like Japan and South Korea often experience heavy snowfall that can paralyze cities and impact economic activity.

The U.S. response to this storm will likely involve a coordinated effort between federal, state, and local agencies, mirroring strategies employed in other nations facing similar crises. These strategies often include deploying snow removal equipment, opening warming shelters for vulnerable populations, and issuing public safety advisories. The potential for widespread power outages also raises concerns about the resilience of infrastructure, a challenge faced by many countries as they grapple with the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.