Winter Storm Blair Prompts National Guard Activation

A powerful winter storm, known as Winter Storm Blair, is affecting the central and eastern parts of the U.S., prompting the activation of National Guard units in West Virginia, Indiana, and Kentucky. West Virginia Governor Jim Justice declared a State of Emergency, mobilizing the National Guard to assist communities, while similar measures were taken in Indiana by Governor Eric Holcomb and in Kentucky by Governor Andy Beshear. In Indiana, 122 Guard members are engaged in supporting stranded motorists and responding to winter emergencies across seven armories. The storm could bring significant snowfall and ice accumulation, with central and southern Indiana under a winter storm warning and parts of the state anticipating up to 12 inches of snow. Officials warn that travel could become impossible and power outages may be prolonged due to ice and cold temperatures. The National Guard's operations in Indiana will continue through Tuesday, working in coordination with state and local agencies.