Severe U.S. winter storm leaves deaths, power outages and widespread travel disruption
A powerful winter storm pushed across a huge swath of the United States, bringing snow, ice and dangerous cold that authorities say has been linked to multiple deaths. The system knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of customers and snarled air and road travel as emergency officials urged people to limit trips and check on vulnerable neighbors.
- BYLINE
- Lagos Tribune News Desk
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A sprawling storm system keeps much of the country on alert
A major winter storm swept from the South into the Northeast, mixing heavy snow with ice and plunging temperatures that created hazardous conditions across a wide corridor of states. Officials in multiple regions warned that even short trips could become dangerous due to poor visibility, slick roads and bitter wind chills.
Reports in local and national coverage said at least 15 deaths were attributed to storm-related incidents, including hypothermia, crashes and medical emergencies during snow removal. In several areas, shelters and outreach teams focused on people without reliable heat as temperatures dropped well below normal.
Power outages and cold warnings hit millions
Utilities reported large-scale outages as ice and high demand strained systems. In the hardest-hit pockets, restoration work was slowed by dangerous road conditions and continuing precipitation. Weather officials issued broad cold alerts, advising residents to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, protect pets and insulate pipes to prevent freezes.
The storm’s footprint was so wide that conditions varied sharply by region: some areas dealt with heavy snow totals while others saw sleet and freezing rain that quickly glazed highways. Emergency managers urged people to monitor local advisories and to keep extra supplies on hand in case travel became impossible.
Air travel and transportation face days of ripple effects
Airlines canceled and delayed thousands of flights as airports in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic struggled with runway clearing, de-icing and staffing disruptions. Officials said operations should improve as conditions stabilize, but warned that backlog effects could linger as aircraft and crews get repositioned.
Transportation agencies reminded drivers that even treated roads can refreeze as temperatures fall, especially overnight and on bridges. Authorities emphasized that the safest choice during peak conditions is to stay off roads unless travel is essential.