A powerful winter storm is set to impact millions across the United States, bringing catastrophic ice and heavy snow. The storm's path stretches over 2,000 miles from Texas to New England, causing widespread travel disruptions and power outages. Here's a breakdown of the situation and its impact:
- Catastrophic Ice Storm: The storm will bring freezing rain and ice accumulations, weighing down power lines and trees in the South. Hundreds of thousands may lose power, some for days.
- Travel Nightmare: Thousands of flights have already been canceled, and travel will be difficult to impossible on roads across the storm's path.
- Record Cold: More than half of all Americans will experience subzero wind chills, with extreme cold locking snow and ice in place and leaving those without power shivering for days.
- Empty Shelves: Shoppers in Tulsa, Oklahoma, report empty shelves at grocery stores, with shortages of eggs, produce, and water.
- Emergency Measures: Cities like Dallas are in 'response mode', treating roads, preparing shelters, and implementing plans to ensure safety.
- Impact on Aviation: Major airlines are posting mass cancellations, making it the worst day for US flight cancellations in the past year.
- State of Emergency: At least 15 states have declared a state of emergency, and Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced a disaster declaration covering 134 counties.
- Federal Response: President Trump has been briefed and is coordinating with officials, with FEMA fully prepared to respond.
- Winter Storm Warnings: Winter storm warnings now stretch from New Mexico to New England, covering over 1,400 counties and 97 million people, the most since at least 2008.
- Impact on Schools: Schools across the country are canceling classes, with closures announced at various colleges and universities.
- Travel Restrictions: New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has declared a state of emergency and imposed commercial vehicle travel restrictions on interstate highways.
- Power and Infrastructure: Officials are monitoring critical infrastructure, including power and transportation systems, to ensure they can withstand the storm's impact.
