Washington(The COW News Digital)A powerful winter storm has brought large parts of the United States to a standstill, claiming at least 30 lives and disrupting daily life across dozens of states. Heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and dangerously low temperatures have forced the closure of schools, offices, and major transport routes, while millions remain under emergency weather warnings.
According to US media reports, the severe storm system has affected wide areas including Washington, New York, Texas, Oklahoma, New Jersey, and several other states. Arctic winds combined with intense snowfall have led to hazardous road conditions, resulting in numerous traffic accidents and fatalities.
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Air travel has been severely disrupted, with approximately 19,000 flights canceled nationwide. Federal offices in Washington have been closed, and authorities have urged citizens to avoid non-essential travel. From Arkansas to New England, snowfall exceeding one foot has been recorded, overwhelming local infrastructure and emergency services.
The situation has been particularly extreme in northern areas near Pittsburgh, where up to 20 inches of snow has fallen. Temperatures in some regions dropped as low as minus 31 degrees Celsius, marking one of the coldest spells experienced in decades. Meteorologists say the combination of heavy snow and extreme cold has created life-threatening conditions, especially for vulnerable populations.
In New York City alone, the bodies of eight people were reportedly found in open areas, raising concerns about exposure-related deaths. Emergency shelters have been activated in several cities to provide warmth and assistance to those without adequate housing.
Power outages have added to the crisis, with more than one million people left without electricity due to damaged power lines and overloaded grids. Authorities confirmed that nearly 200 million people across 44 states are currently under severe cold warnings. In response to the worsening conditions, states of emergency have been declared in at least 24 states.
Weather officials have warned that the danger is far from over. The National Weather Service has forecast continued extreme cold in the coming days, along with the possibility of another powerful winter storm affecting eastern coastal regions. Residents have been advised to stay indoors, conserve energy, and check on elderly neighbors and those in need.
Emergency management agencies are coordinating rescue and relief operations, while local governments continue to assess damage and restore essential services. Officials have emphasized that public cooperation is critical as the country faces one of the most widespread and severe winter weather events in recent years.
