Snow And Ice Slam U.S. As Cold Grips Northeast

Winter has come roaring back across the United States, as a massive storm system blanketed large swaths of the country with snow and ice, bringing travel chaos and dangerous cold to millions. From the Midwest to the Northeast, cities and towns are digging out and bracing for another round of bitter temperatures, with some areas facing their harshest conditions of the season.

According to CBS News, the latest winter storm swept through much of the U.S., delivering a potent mix of freezing rain and heavy snow. Dangerous conditions persisted in several regions, leaving roads slick and prompting warnings from authorities. Robert Sinclair of AAA Northeast told CBS News that the storm had a significant impact on travel, with numerous delays and cancellations reported at airports and hazardous driving conditions on many highways.

Detroit and its surrounding areas felt the full force of the storm on January 25, 2026, as a low-pressure system moved through, dropping several inches of snow. FOX 2 Detroit reported that the heaviest accumulations were found downriver in Monroe, where 6.5 inches were measured, while Romulus, the site of the city’s official weather station, recorded 3.9 inches. The snow began in the southern suburbs and lingered there, leading to higher totals compared to other parts of the region.

The aftermath of the storm was just as concerning. A Cold Weather Advisory was issued for Metro Detroit, going into effect at 7 p.m. on January 26 and lasting until 10 a.m. the next morning. Temperatures were expected to plummet overnight to a low of just 3 degrees Fahrenheit, but with wind chills making it feel as cold as -20 degrees. Meteorologists warned that the deep freeze would persist throughout the week, keeping the region locked in winter’s grip. And there’s little respite in sight—another clipper system originating from Canada was forecast to sweep through on January 27, bringing the threat of additional snow to an already beleaguered populace.

But Detroit wasn’t alone in facing the storm’s wrath. As the system moved eastward, it triggered Winter Storm Warnings for major cities like New York and Boston. Travelers planning to pass through these hubs were advised to check with airlines for possible delays or cancellations, as the weather continued to disrupt flight schedules and road travel. The impact was felt far beyond the Midwest, stretching into the Northeast and New England.

Connecticut, in particular, saw some of the heaviest snowfall totals. The National Weather Service reported that the worst of the snowstorm had passed by the morning of January 26, 2026, but not before dumping about a foot of snow across much of the state the previous day. "Very little snow melt is expected as temperatures today moderate some, but should fall just short of freezing this afternoon with most wind chills today struggling to get out of the middle and upper teens," forecasters noted in their discussion, as reported by USA Today.

New London County stood out for its impressive snow totals. As of 10:50 a.m. on January 26, trained spotters and members of the public had reported the following accumulations: Franklin received 10 inches, Gales Ferry 11 inches, Jewett City a whopping 14 inches, Mystic between 11 and 11.5 inches, New London 12.5 inches, Niantic 9 inches, Norwich between 12 and 12.4 inches, and Salem also at 14 inches. These numbers, compiled by the National Weather Service, highlighted just how much snow residents were contending with as they shoveled out driveways and sidewalks.

While the snow was expected to taper off in Connecticut, forecasters warned that the cold would linger. Temperatures on January 26 were forecast to remain just below freezing, with wind chills stuck in the teens. The lack of significant warming meant that the snow would stick around, adding to the challenges for commuters and public works crews alike.

Travelers across the affected regions faced a host of difficulties. Robert Sinclair from AAA Northeast told CBS News that motorists needed to exercise extreme caution, as icy roads and reduced visibility created hazardous conditions. "This storm has made travel extremely dangerous in many areas, and we’re urging people to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary," Sinclair said. He also emphasized the importance of checking weather updates and travel advisories before heading out, particularly for those with flights scheduled through major eastern airports.

Public officials in cities like Detroit and New York echoed these warnings, encouraging residents to limit travel and to prepare for extended periods of cold. Schools in several districts announced closures or delays, and emergency services geared up for an expected increase in calls related to accidents and exposure to the elements.

As the storm moved east, its effects were felt not only in snowfall but in the biting cold that followed. The National Weather Service’s forecast discussion for Connecticut made it clear that the snow wasn’t going anywhere soon, noting the lack of melting and the persistence of subfreezing temperatures. For many, this meant a prolonged period of winter’s inconveniences—slippery sidewalks, snow-clogged streets, and the constant need to bundle up before venturing outdoors.

It’s not just the day-to-day routines that are disrupted during such events. Local economies can take a hit as businesses close, deliveries are delayed, and workers are forced to stay home. Municipal budgets strain under the cost of snow removal and overtime for emergency personnel. And for the most vulnerable—those without adequate housing or reliable heat—the risks are particularly acute. Community organizations and shelters in cities like Detroit and New London ramped up efforts to reach those in need, offering warm places to stay and distributing winter clothing.

Looking ahead, meteorologists cautioned that the pattern of cold and snow was likely to continue, at least for the next several days. The clipper system expected to move through Michigan on January 27 could bring additional accumulations, while the Northeast would remain under the influence of frigid air. For many, it’s a reminder of winter’s unpredictability and the importance of staying prepared.

As the nation digs out and braces for more, the latest storm underscores the power of nature and the resilience of communities. Whether in Detroit’s snow-choked suburbs or Connecticut’s wind-swept towns, Americans are facing the season’s challenges head-on, armed with shovels, salt, and a fair bit of grit.