A brutal winter storm has swept across the United States, bringing record-breaking cold, blizzards, and ice storms. Almost 185 million Americans are now under weather advisories, with 23 states declaring a state of emergency. Forecasters warn of arctic temperatures dropping to as low as -30°C for several days. This extreme weather has paralyzed transportation and infrastructure, leading to school closures, thousands of flight cancellations, power outages, and hundreds of accidents, with at least six confirmed fatalities.
The Grip of the Arctic Cold
An unprecedented cold snap has gripped the United States, from the Midwest down to the southern states. What began as a winter storm has escalated into a national crisis. The extreme weather has caused widespread disruption, affecting millions.
Tragic Toll: Cold Claims Lives
Despite official warnings to stay indoors, the extreme conditions have already claimed at least six lives. Authorities are investigating deaths directly linked to hypothermia and the harsh weather.
- New York: Officials are investigating outdoor deaths attributed to the extreme cold.
- Southern States: Fatalities have been confirmed in Louisiana and Texas, where such weather is highly unusual.
- Midwest: A death has also been reported in Kansas.
New York in White: A City at a Standstill
The situation is particularly severe in New York State and the surrounding Tri-State Area. Central Park is unrecognizable after receiving over 22 centimeters of snow. Airports like LaGuardia and Newark are struggling with nearly 25 centimeters of snow, leading to widespread flight cancellations and emergency procedures.
Daily life has ground to a halt:
- Public schools have switched to remote learning.
- Heated centers have been opened for the homeless, and emergency services are patrolling the streets.
- Residents are strongly advised to avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul described the situation as “the longest period of extreme cold and heavy precipitation in many years,” noting wind exacerbated the already severe conditions.
Hundreds of Accidents on the Roads
The snowstorm has caused utter chaos on the highways. Drivers ignoring warnings have found themselves stuck in traffic jams or involved in accidents. New York State Police responded to approximately 250 accidents, while Indiana reported an even higher number, with 365 collisions.
Grim Forecast: More Cold to Come
Meteorologists warn that the worst may not be over. The arctic cold is expected to persist until at least Friday. In some regions, temperatures could plummet to -30°C. This extreme cold poses a significant threat to infrastructure, with fears that power grids may not withstand the load, leaving millions without heating in the dead of winter.
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