Freezing weather and snow storms across the U.S. could cause massive power outages over the next week and boost natural gas demand to its highest levels of the winter, according to energy analysts and reliability coordinators.

The Kansas City region expects a winter storm starting Saturday evening, beginning with freezing rain or sleet and transitioning to snow. Find the latest weather forecast and what Kansas City and other cities plan for snow plowing.

The home has been deemed unsafe after a tree destroyed its chimney and damaged the electrical system. Strong winds battered much of Maine on Thursday, breaking tree branches, knocking down power lines and forcing at least one family out of their home.

"Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and some power outages may result," the National Weather Service warned. "Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution."

Hold onto your hats because winds whipping across the Northeast and New England on Thursday have the potential to cause power outages and delay travel just as people get back into their normal routines after the holidays.