Major Winter Storm Engulfs the Nation

A major winter storm is sweeping across the northeastern United States, following its impact on various states in the center and south. This storm has left over a million homes without power and caused extensive flight cancellations. Meteorologists are calling it one of the worst winter events in recent decades, citing frigid temperatures, heavy snowfall, and dangerous ice accumulations.

Storm Details and Warnings

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings that the effects of the snow and ice will continue through the week. Dangerous driving and walking conditions are expected due to freezing rain and icy surfaces. By Sunday afternoon, over a million customers were without electricity, primarily in southern regions of the country.

Casualties and Emergency Declarations

• At least five people were found dead in New York City, possibly due to the extreme cold.
• Officials in Louisiana reported two fatalities linked to hypothermia from the storm.
• An emergency has been declared in multiple states, including Washington, as snow blankets major cities along the Atlantic coast.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani emphasized the danger posed by extreme cold, especially for vulnerable populations such as the homeless.

Impact on Transportation

Major airports in Washington, Philadelphia, and New York faced significant disruptions. Nearly 15,000 flights were canceled over the weekend, with thousands more delayed, according to FlightAware. The transport crisis is expected to worsen as the storm continues to move northeast.

Precautions and Recommendations

In Houston, where memories of the devastating 2021 winter storm linger, Mayor John Whitmire cautioned residents to remain vigilant. Considering below-freezing temperatures, he confirmed that schools will remain closed on Monday.

Scientific Observations

This winter storm is linked to a distortion of the polar vortex, a circulation of air typically found over the North Pole. Scientists suggest an increasing frequency of these disturbances may relate to climate change, although this remains a contentious issue. Former President Donald Trump used the storm to express skepticism about climate change on social media, asking, “What happened to global warming?”

Forecast and Future Warnings

Authorities have warned that the severe cold will persist throughout the week, particularly in northern areas where wind chills could plummet to -45°C. Residents are urged to stay indoors and keep warm during this hazardous weather event.