Heavy snow and bitter cold is expected to hit across much of the country through the weekend, but it's not shaping up to come close to the biggest snowstorms in history. Some may have memories of the infamous blizzard of 1978,

More than half of the U.S. is bracing for a major winter storm, bringing the potential for widespread power outages and dangerous travel conditions.

Heavy snow accumulations between 6 and 12 inches are expected across the region, with some areas potentially receiving more than a foot, according to the weather service.