While it's not clear what impact a mix of rain, freezing rain, sleet and snow may have on the capital city, officials say now is the time to begin preparations.

I wouldn’t plan on any kind of travel from Tuesday night through the day Wednesday, no matter what kind of messy wintry mix we get.

Preparations are underway from Houston to Atlanta as a rare winter storm sets its sights on the southern U.S., where it's expected to bring a messy mix of heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain that could have a major impact on travel and daily life.