20 million under winter weather alerts as heavy snow targets West and Midwest

Weather Conditions - Winter weather alerts are in effect for 20 million people due to a fast-moving system [1] - Some areas in the northern Rockies received nearly a foot (approximately 30 centimeters) of snow [1] - Wind gusts reached 80 mph (approximately 129 km/h) on slopes in Breen Ridge, Colorado [1] - Dangerous road conditions are present due to snow, ice, and wind [2] - Fog is reducing visibility in Arkansas [2] Temperature and Cold Weather Impacts - The coldest air is located in the northern plains, with temperatures below zero (Fahrenheit) [3] - High temperatures are expected to be 10 to 25 degrees (Fahrenheit) below average [3] - Parts of Minnesota and the Dakotas will struggle to climb above single digits (Fahrenheit) on Sunday [3] - Chicago experienced wind chills lower than expected for this time of year [2] Seasonal Observations - The current amount of snow and temperatures are considered early for this time of year [3] - Lake Superior's frozen shoreline in Wisconsin indicates the severity of the cold snap in the Midwest [2]