Parts of northern U.S. shut down ahead of winter storm

States in the U.S. northern plains were largely shutting down ahead of a massive winter storm that could dump up to 2 feet of snow in some areas. Many schools throughout the Dakotas, Minnesota and Wisconsin were called off for Wednesday, ahead of the storm.

Emergency management leaders warned people to stay off the roads or face potential “whiteout” conditions due to the snow and fierce winds.The snowfall could be historic, even in a region accustomed to heavy snow. Wind gusts could reach 50 miles per hour and wind chills are expected to hit minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit in some parts of the Dakotas and Minnesota.Weather service meteorologist Frank Pereira said the system was expected to affect about 43 million Americans.