Credited from: CHANNELNEWSASIA
A colossal winter storm has disrupted large parts of the United States, claiming at least 25 lives as it left significant snowfall across the Northeast and lingering destruction in the South. The storm's tail brought heavy snow, exceeding a foot in several locations, with conditions stretching over a broad 1,300-mile area from Arkansas to New England. The National Weather Service reported that areas north of Pittsburgh received over 20 inches of snow, while dangerously low wind chills reached minus 25 degrees Fahrenheit in some regions, according to latimes, channelnewsasia, and indiatimes.
Many communities, particularly in Tennessee and Mississippi, are grappling with severe power outages, as reports indicate more than 750,000 people were left without electricity on Monday. This surge in outages followed freezing rain that caused significant damage to trees and power lines across the affected regions. Officials in Mississippi called it their worst ice storm since 1994, scrambling to provide essential supplies to residents left in perilous conditions, according to latimes, channelnewsasia, and indiatimes.
Travel disruptions were extensive, with over 8,000 flights canceled or delayed nationwide on Monday alone. The cancellation rate saw its highest levels since the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting 45% of flights on the previous day. In New York City, heavy snow accumulation led to the city experiencing its snowiest day in years, with 11 inches recorded at Central Park. While major roads were mostly cleared, pedestrians faced challenges on sidewalks still buried in snow, and several subway services were delayed, according to latimes, channelnewsasia, and indiatimes.
Tragically, the death toll has included individuals affected by accidents such as snowplow incidents in Massachusetts and Ohio, as well as fatalities linked to exposure in extreme weather. In New York City alone, eight individuals were found deceased outdoors during the frigid weekend. Local authorities continue to investigate these death reports amid widespread efforts to assist citizens impacted by the storm, according to latimes, channelnewsasia, and indiatimes.