"It is rare that storms combine this much snow, ice and bitter cold over such a large area — a widespread travel-halting winter storm will stall daily life for days in large portions of the central and eastern U.S.," Evan Myers of AccuWeather said.

Fox Weather correspondent Robert Ray talks reporting inside a dangerous winter storm as a powerful system threatens millions along the East Coast.

Heavy snow, ice and brutal cold are expected to make this winter storm a potentially life-threatening weather event, stretching across two-thirds of the U.S.

Accumulation on roofs and gutters can lead to everything from cracks to total collapse. Most standard homeowners insurance policies include coverage for damage caused by the weight of ice or snow, particularly when the damage occurs abruptly as a result of a storm rather than gradual deterioration.

Count on ABC Columbia News and the ABC Columbia Weather team to keep you up to date on-line and on air with the latest forecast.

"This is going to be our biggest storm in five years," WGAL Chief Meteorologist Christine Ferreira said.

The ice storm's damage bills are piling up, but filing the wrong type of insurance claim could cost you more than the repairs themselves. Local insurance agents reveal the hidden traps that could spike your premiums and the one claim category you should never use for winter storm damage.

A judge sentenced a Conway man for killing one person and hurting another in a shooting at an apartment complex. A Myrtle Beach man was charged with sexual assault involving a child. Grand Strand and Pee Dee school districts announce changes ahead of winter weather this weekend.

FOX 26 has the latest winter storm coverage from across the area. The NBA has postponed Sunday's Denver Nuggets at Memphis Grizzlies game due to weather conditions. From emergency supplies to stick in your car to warmth-giving winners and power outage heroes, be sure to stock up while you still can.