Millions brace for 'catastrophic' ice as 18 states declare emergency amid historic winter storm

A powerful winter storm is barreling across the United States, as federal officials warn that ice and snow pose a threat to millions of Americans.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, R-Ark, declared a state of emergency and activated the National Guard. She said road crews have pre-treated roughly 90% of state highways ahead of the incoming storm.

"Mother Nature is not something you get to control, and so we've got to be very aware of our surroundings and what's coming," she later added.

A state of emergency has been declared in at least 18 states so far, including New York, Kentucky, Georgia and Texas. The 2,300-mile-long storm is expected to bring snow, freezing rain and sleet.

"We certainly hope people can enjoy the fun parts of the snow, but also ask them to be really cautious as they're getting out and not take unnecessary risks," added Sanders as the first signs of the storm began to hit her state.

He warned that ice would likely be one of the most dangerous aspects of the storm and said, "It's a catastrophic situation for certain areas."

He warned people to use their generators correctly, noting that "people lose their lives" when they're used incorrectly. Graham's advice to Americans was to prepare now by stocking up on food, having safe secondary heat sources and checking on elderly neighbors.

FOX Weather's Mike Rawlins contributed to this report.