A rare winter storm has significantly impacted the U.S. Gulf Coast, resulting in record snowfall and dangerously low temperatures, as a blanket of deep freeze envelops much of the country. The storm, which has been described as unprecedented for the region, brought heavy snow and ice to parts of Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, and beyond. With a snowstorm warning issued for approximately 31 million people, areas from southern Texas to Georgia and into Virginia are bracing for harsh conditions until Wednesday morning, as reported by VOA News.

In Houston, where snow is a rarity, the city saw several inches accumulate, prompting closures of schools and businesses. Local authorities worked tirelessly to clear roads while many residents chose to stay indoors amidst the unexpected snowfall. "I've been in Texas my entire life and I have never seen this depth of snow," said Ishan Bhaidani, a local entrepreneur, highlighting the uncommon nature of the weather event. In surrounding areas, cities like New Orleans also witnessed substantial snowfall, nearing a record set in 1895; nearly 25 cm fell in the city, disrupting daily life and operations, according to the Reuters.

The snowstorm's effects were felt far beyond the ground, as it severely disrupted air travel with over 1,000 flights delayed or canceled at Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Furthermore, the dangerous conditions have led to power outages affecting tens of thousands of homes; at one point, as many as 30,000 homes were without electricity. Those numbers have since improved, but frostbite warnings and advice to prevent water pipe ruptures remain in effect as temperatures plunge.

Weather officials predict the storm will continue to affect parts of Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida, exacerbating travel difficulties and threatening power infrastructure. As cities like Atlanta and Montgomery open warming centers and close government offices in preparation for the severe weather, the entire southeastern U.S. faces a coordinated response to this rare meteorological event.

As temperatures continue to hover near freezing, many areas in the eastern U.S. are reporting bitterly cold conditions, further compounded by strong winds that could make the situation even more treacherous. The winter storm serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather across the United States, particularly in regions that seldom see significant snowfall.

For continuous updates on this weather event and safety recommendations, refer back to sources such as VOA News and Reuters.