A powerful winter storm, characterized by an intense cyclone, is moving east across the U.S., bringing a mix of snow, ice, rain, and strong winds. The Upper Midwest and Great Lakes region anticipate heavy snowfall, potentially over a foot, with blizzard conditions and whiteouts. Meanwhile, the South faces severe thunderstorms and a sharp cold front, ending a period of record warmth. This contrasts with spring-like temperatures in the nation's midsection and South.