A powerful winter storm hits the eastern United States, wreaking havoc. As the country prepares to certify the presidential election, snow disrupts the daily lives of millions of Americans. Canceled flights, blocked roads, power cuts: the authorities are calling for caution in the face of this extreme weather.
A violent winter storm hit the eastern United States on Monday, disrupting the daily lives of millions of Americans. Heavy snowfall, mass flight cancellations and power outages have been reported, with more than 50 million people affected by this extreme weather episode.
Canceled flights and snowy roads
With the advance of the storm from the center of the country towards the coastal states, the daily lives of residents are greatly disrupted. According to airport sources, more than 500 flights have been canceled since early this morning at Washington DC’s two main airports, while nationally, more than 2,000 flights have been postponed.
In the federal capital, where up to 30 centimeters of snow are expected according to the National Weather Service, a thick white coat is already covering the streets. Authorities are warning of dangerous traffic conditions, with snowy and icy roads making any travel perilous.
Massive power outages
The winter storm also caused significant power outages. According to the specialist site Poweroutage.us, more than 300,000 homes are currently without power. Utility crews are working to restore power, but weather conditions make interventions difficult.
Transportation safety teams are working hard to clear the roads […] but we call on residents to stay at home.
Andy Beshear, Governor of Kentucky
Certification of the election in the background
This extreme weather episode comes as Congress is due to meet this Monday to certify Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election. Four years after the assault on the Capitol by his supporters, elected officials are called upon not to leave the city despite the climatic conditions.
Tornadoes and violent winds feared
The situation could get even worse in the coming hours. Weather services are warning of potential tornadoes in the southeast of the country, as well as powerful winds that could cause significant property damage and prolonged power outages.
While temperatures are expected to drop sharply, reaching -18°C in places, authorities are calling on Americans to exercise extreme caution. Several governors have already declared a state of emergency in their states, demonstrating the seriousness of the situation.
Global warming singled out
For many experts, this extreme weather episode is a new illustration of the consequences of global warming. With the increase in average temperatures, violent climatic phenomena such as storms, floods or heatwaves are likely to multiply and intensify.
Faced with this growing threat, it appears urgent to accelerate the fight against climate change and strengthen the resilience of territories and populations. A major challenge for the United States and the entire world in the years to come.
