First Cross-Country Storm of 2026 Set to Impact U.S. Weather

The first significant cross-country storm of 2026 is developing, with expectations to bring widespread rain, snow, and severe weather across various regions of the United States. According to the FOX Forecast Center, the storm is anticipated to begin affecting the Southwest on Thursday, January 5, 2026, as a cut-off low pressure system moves from the Pacific into the Rockies. This system is projected to generate up to an inch of rain across the Southern Plains and snow in areas including New Mexico, Colorado, and northern Minnesota.

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As the storm progresses eastward, a substantial area of rain is expected to cover much of the Midwest starting Thursday afternoon. The storm poses a low-end flash flood threat in parts of Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana, shifting to Kentucky and Tennessee by Friday. The primary severe weather threat is forecasted for Friday, particularly in the Lower Mississippi and Tennessee valleys, affecting southern Illinois, southeastern Missouri, southwestern Kentucky, western Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama. These storms may produce damaging winds, hail, and possibly tornadoes.

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As the storm continues its trajectory, it is expected to reach the Northeast by late Friday into Saturday, bringing heavy rain to states such as Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Maine. The cold front will likely result in showers and thunderstorms, with conditions expected to improve across the U.S. by late Sunday, January 8, 2026.

New York PostFirst cross-country storm of 2026 to bring rain, snow and severe weather threat to millions by late weekHuntsville Times

While the storm's potential for severe weather has been highlighted, some meteorologists and local officials have expressed concerns about the accuracy of forecasts, particularly regarding the amount of snow expected. The variability in cold air infiltration from Canada could significantly affect snowfall totals, leaving some areas uncertain about the storm's impact.

First cross-country storm of 2026 to bring rain, snow and severe weather threat to millions by late week

The FOX Forecast Center has emphasized the importance of preparedness as the storm approaches, advising residents in affected areas to stay informed about weather updates and potential hazards. Local emergency management agencies have also issued warnings regarding the possibility of severe weather, urging communities to take necessary precautions.

Huntsville Times

• “These storms could be capable of generating damaging wind gusts, hail, and possibly tornadoes.” — FOX Forecast Center

New York Post

• “are expected to improve by late Sunday, with most areas drying out by the start of the new week.” — FOX Forecast Center

New York Post

As the storm dissipates across the Great Lakes and Northeast from Saturday through Sunday, meteorologists will continue to monitor the situation for any unexpected developments. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared for changing weather conditions as the storm unfolds.

First cross-country storm of 2026 to bring rain, snow and severe weather threat to millions by late week