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Major Storm Forecast to Bring Historic Snowfall to Eastern US


A man walks across the Rachel Carson bridge over the Allegheny River toward downtown Pittsburgh as snow falls during the evening rush hour, Jan. 20, 2016.
A man walks across the Rachel Carson bridge over the Allegheny River toward downtown Pittsburgh as snow falls during the evening rush hour, Jan. 20, 2016.

A major winter storm that could bring historic amounts of snowfall to certain regions is expected to hit the East Coast of the United States this weekend, according to meteorologists at the National Weather Service.

The storm could impact East Coast regions as far south as northern North Carolina and as far north as Boston.

The weather service warns that travel will be limited if not impossible in the areas where blizzard conditions are forecast. The strongest winds — and potentially life-threatening conditions — are expected Friday night through Saturday night.

Kimberly Charles of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, loads a newly purchased snow shovel into her SUV after buying it at a hardware store in Winston-Salem, Jan. 20, 2016.
Kimberly Charles of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, loads a newly purchased snow shovel into her SUV after buying it at a hardware store in Winston-Salem, Jan. 20, 2016.

In Washington, Mayor Muriel Bowser tweeted that more than 2,000 residents have joined the city's Resident Snow Team to help elderly and disabled neighbors shovel out after the storm.

In New York, Mayor Bill de Blasio and the city's emergency management team unveiled a public service video on preparing for brutal winter weather. Tips include winterizing "go bags" by adding a blanket, warm socks and gloves. Emergency supply kits including a battery-operated radio also are encouraged.

On Wednesday, snow from a separate system fell in Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia, where up to 5 inches was expected. Louisville received 3 inches of snow Wednesday morning, which caused dozens of accidents. Nashville also reported snow, closing schools and causing traffic problems.

In Georgia, Governor Nathan Deal declared a state of emergency for 15 northern counties as the storm approached.

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