This week, more than 40 million people across 22 states are preparing for a major winter storm system that will bring heavy snow, rain, gusty winds and potential flash flooding. The storm is expected to affect almost the entire country, with the Pacific Northwest and Northeast likely to be the hardest hit. At the same time, temperatures will be significantly higher than normal in the Southeast and Midwest, with nearly 150 million Americans experiencing a high of 70 degrees or more. The National Weather Service is urging people to take precautions and be aware of any winter weather alerts.