At Least Seven Dead and 800,000 Without Power as Major Winter Storm Hits the US
A powerful winter storm has swept across the United States, resulting in at least seven fatalities and leaving over 800,000 households without power. The effects of this storm have led to widespread disruptions, from closed schools and roads to thousands of flight cancellations.
Major Impacts of the Winter Storm
– Casualties and Conditions:
– At least seven people have died due to storm-related causes, including hypothermia in Louisiana.
– Weather-related fatalities have also been reported in Texas, Tennessee, and Kansas.
– Power Outages:
– As of midday Sunday, more than 800,000 homes are experiencing power outages, as reported by poweroutage.us.
– Flight Disruptions:
– Over 11,000 flights have been cancelled, according to FlightAware, exacerbating travel woes for many.
Dangerous Weather Conditions
The storm is characterized by heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain, which poses significant hazards:
– Freezing Rain:
– Ice occurs when rain droplets freeze instantly upon contact with surfaces, leading to hazardous conditions.
– Widespread Impact:
– The storm is expected to affect approximately 180 million Americans—more than half the population.
Statements from Officials
– National Weather Service:
– Meteorologist Allison Santorelli stated, The snow and ice will be very, very slow to melt and won’t be going away anytime soon, hindering recovery efforts.
– Local Authorities:
– Louisiana’s Department of Health confirmed two hypothermia-related deaths.
– Austin’s mayor indicated an exposure-related fatality, and Kansas officials reported a woman found covered in snow who may have succumbed to the cold.
Emergency Declarations and Travel Warnings
– Emergency Measures:
– Nearly half of the states have declared emergencies, with school cancellations already in effect as a precaution against the ongoing storm.
– Weather Alerts:
– New York Governor Kathy Hochul urged residents to remain indoors, noting, This is certainly the coldest winter storm we’ve seen in years.
Observations on the Polar Vortex
– The storm’s intensity is attributed to the polar vortex, a ring of strong winds that can shift and send cold air southward when weakened. This system has caused severe cold in typically warmer regions like Texas and Louisiana, where temperatures have dipped to 15-20°C below seasonal averages.
Conclusion
As this major winter storm continues to worsen, it serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of severe weather conditions. Authorities emphasize the importance of safety during this time, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly as the storm impacts large swathes of the United States. With ongoing challenges from power outages and travel disruptions, the recovery from this winter storm will be a significant undertaking.