Winter Storm Paralyses Large Parts of the United States
A powerful and far-reaching winter storm has tightened its grip across much of the United States, dumping heavy snow and ice from the Southwest to the Northeast. Snow accumulation reports continued through Saturday and Sunday as the massive system disrupted dozens of states.
Spanning more than 2,300 miles, the storm has emerged as one of the most extensive winter weather events in recent years, affecting an estimated 245 million people across nearly 40 states.
Heavy Snowfall Recorded From the Midwest to the Northeast
Several states have reported more than a foot of snowfall, underscoring the storm's intensity. States including New Mexico, Colorado, Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Arkansas, Ohio, West Virginia, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut all logged accumulations exceeding 12 inches. Some eastern locations saw even heavier snowfall:
- Bellaire, Ohio; Davis, West Virginia; West Liberty, Pennsylvania — over 16 inches
- Northeast regions — snowfall nearing 15 inches in several areas
Additional reported totals include: Arkansas: 8 inches, Illinois and Ohio: 11 inches, Indiana: 13 inches, Kansas: 8 inches, Missouri: 12 inches, Oklahoma: 7 inches, Texas: 6 inches, Tennessee: 5 inches.
Flights Cancelled, Power Outages Worsen Conditions
The storm has caused major disruptions to air travel, with more than 11,000 flights cancelled nationwide. Snow-covered runways, icy conditions and low visibility grounded flights at major airports.
Power infrastructure has also taken a hit. Over 800,000 customers across 11 states were left without electricity as heavy snow and ice downed power lines, while freezing temperatures slowed restoration efforts.
Rare Ice Storm Warning Issued in the South
Meteorologists issued an ice storm warning for the Greenville-Spartanburg region of South Carolina, marking the first such warning in more than 20 years. The deep freeze has affected parts of the South and Northeast, regions not accustomed to prolonged winter extremes.
Casualties, Safety Concerns and What's Next
Emergency officials have reported weather-related incidents, including traffic accidents, injuries from falls and exposure to extreme cold. Authorities continue to assess casualties as cleanup operations remain underway.
Forecasters say the worst of the storm is gradually shifting eastward, though light snow may linger in the Northeast into Monday morning. Residents are advised to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel and follow local weather advisories.