New York, Dec 14, (V7N) - A brutal winter storm is affecting millions across the eastern U.S., with temperatures well below average and lake-effect snow near the Great Lakes. Ice storms are also threatening parts of the central U.S.

In the West, heavy rain, mountain snow, and gusty winds from an atmospheric river will impact southern Oregon and northern/central California through Saturday.

High temperatures will remain cold, with teens and 20s in the northern Plains, Great Lakes, and interior Northeast, and 50s in the Southeast. However, temperatures are expected to rebound this weekend as the cold air moves eastward.

Lake-effect snow will taper off Friday morning, except for areas downwind of Lake Ontario, where up to 12 inches of snow is expected. Travel could be difficult due to deep snow and poor visibility.

In the central U.S., snow, sleet, and freezing rain are expected to cause hazardous conditions, especially in east-central Iowa, including Cedar Rapids, where up to 0.25 inches of ice could accumulate. This may lead to power outages and tree damage, and travel could be nearly impossible.

In the West, heavy rain and snow are expected, with up to 7 inches of rain in some areas, causing flooding risks. Winds could trigger power outages in parts of northern and central California and western Washington. Mountain snow is expected to accumulate up to 2 feet in higher elevations.

No significant rain is expected in Southern California from the storm moving through northern parts of the state.

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