Monster Storm Creates Travel Woes, Danger Across a Third of US

Photo Courtesy - ABC News Radio (CHICAGO) -- A potentially deadly winter storm is moving eastward, covering at least one-third of the country and bringing with it a combination of heavy snow, ice, high winds and freezing temperatures.  Forecasters say it could be the worst snowstorm the country has seen in more than 40 years.

The storm has already snarled air traffic in Chicago and Dallas, the site of Sunday's Super Bowl. American Airlines cancelled 600 flights out of Chicago and another 900 flights at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. According to Flightaware.com, more than 6,300 flights have been cancelled nationwide so far, with the number expected to increase as the storm moves east.

Blizzard warnings are in effect for nine states with the storm expected especially to affect Oklahoma City, Kansas City, St. Louis, Detroit, Des Moines, Chicago and Milwaukee.

In Tulsa, Okla., the Tulsa World has announced Wednesday's paper will not be printed because of the storm, though the online edition will continue.

"This will be the first time in our history that we have not printed a Tulsa World," said publisher Robert E. Lorton III. "However, we wanted to make sure our employees and their families remained safe as we all try to deal with this weather."

Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Craig Fugate said the snowstorm will be powerful and warned residents to be prepared.

"This is not something that's sneaking up on us," he said. "It's been well-forecasted. We know it's going to be bad and prepare like it's bad."

Governor Pat Quinn of Illinois activated more than 500 National Guard troops to assist motorists on several highways. The troops will be stationed at rest stops, and work with the Illinois State Police to ensure the safety of any stranded travelers.

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