An extreme weather event is wreaking havoc in the Eastern and Central United States, with snow, ice and violent winds. School closures, flight cancellations and power outages mark the start of the week.
Millions of people from the Ohio Valley to the Mid-Atlantic are bracing for what could be one of the most significant winter storms of the season. Heavy snow, freezing rain and strong winds are already disrupting travel and forcing local authorities to declare states of emergency in several states.
According to the National Weather Service, this storm covers an area 1,300 kilometers long, leaving 55 million Americans under winter weather alert. In Washington DC, where Congress is meeting to formally declare Donald Trump and JD Vance as president and vice president-elect, snow accumulations of up to 10 inches are forecast, with gusty winds making travel hazardous.
Paralyzed infrastructures
Local and national authorities are working to manage this chaotic situation. In Kansas City, snowstorms have caused major road closures, leaving hundreds of motorists stranded as emergency services struggle to free stranded vehicles.
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser urged residents to stay home: “If you don’t need to travel, stay home to allow snow removal crews to work safely.” Meanwhile, nearly 230,000 homes were without power in five states hit by the weather.
Impact on schools and transportation
The resumption of classes after the holidays is compromised in several states. In Cincinnati, Louisville and Washington, D.C., public schools will remain closed Monday due to weather conditions. Flights are not spared: more than 1,260 cancellations have been recorded, and delays are expected to intensify.
The Winter Storm Severity Index predicts major disruptions, calling roads “unsafe or impassable.” Many bridges and overpasses have become slippery and dangerous, especially in Kentucky and Missouri.
Behind the storm, freezing temperatures are falling across the Central United States, with subzero feelings expected from Nebraska to Texas. By Tuesday, temperatures will be up to 30 degrees below seasonal norms, freezing accumulated snow and ice.
Difficult conditions in the South
Further south, torrential rains and tornadoes hit Arkansas and Mississippi, causing widespread damage. Kansas resident Mike Cho, stranded on I-70, said: “I pray I can go home on Monday.” This storm, which affects several regions at once, is a reminder of the unpredictable force of nature.
As this storm gradually moves away from the East Coast Monday evening, residents in these areas should remain cautious and follow the instructions of local authorities. Staying at home could well be the best solution to face this freezing week.
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