Winter Storm Claims 2 Lives, Sets Snow and Temperature Records in South
Recent winter storms have claimed the lives of two individuals in North Carolina while causing historic snowfall and record-setting low temperatures across the Southeastern United States. Governor Josh Stein confirmed that more than 1,000 road collisions were reported during the weekend, leading to the fatalities. However, details regarding the victims have not been disclosed.
Record Snowfall and Unprecedented Temperatures
The winter storm, named Winter Storm Gianna, brought significant snowfall to North Carolina. Residents awoke to reports of more than 20 inches of snow in various locations. The snowfall totals across the state include:
- 22.5 inches in Faust
- 16 inches in Lexington
- 12 inches in Jacksonville
- 11 inches in Charlotte
This event marks the fourth-largest single-day snowfall in state history and the most considerable snow event since 2004. Northeastern and coastal communities faced particularly severe impacts. A house was washed away in Buxton, prompting concerns for coastal properties.
Impact on Transportation and Safety
Officials have urged residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary due to treacherous road conditions. Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson emphasized the importance of safety, advising drivers to slow down and maintain distance from other vehicles and emergency responders. Black ice is expected to pose additional risks throughout the week, given the frigid overnight temperatures.
Similar Conditions in Surrounding States
South Carolina experienced its share of adverse weather, notably at Charleston International Airport, where 0.7 inches of snow fell. This broke the previous daily record of 0.6 inches set in 1977. The state’s Department of Public Safety urged residents to remain indoors to mitigate dangers on the roads.
Florida also faced unusual weather, with light snow flurries reported in Tampa Bay. The National Weather Service predicts ongoing harsh conditions as the storm system strengthens off the East Coast.
Power Outages and Record Lows
The storm resulted in widespread power outages, affecting over 160,000 customers across the South. The power failures included:
- 56,600 in Mississippi
- 44,100 in Tennessee
- 25,990 in Florida
Numerous record low temperatures were established over the weekend. Florida cities such as Sanford, Melbourne, and Daytona Beach recorded historic lows. In Ohio, a chilling minus 9 degrees was documented in Columbus, breaking a record from 2004.
As cold weather alerts continue, high temperatures across the Southeast remain significantly below the seasonal average, with wind chills affecting states from Florida to the Northeast. Many areas are expected to see temperatures dip into the single digits or below zero in northern regions, while the Southeast will experience temperatures in the teens and 20s.
Outlook
Though temperatures are anticipated to rise slightly at the start of the week, much of the Eastern United States will continue to see conditions 5 to 15 degrees below average. Authorities remain on alert, encouraging residents to stay safe as conditions remain hazardous.
For updates on weather events, continue following the latest reports on Filmogaz.com.
