Godsent Ogbebor
US Braces for Brutal Winter Storm as It Sweeps Across the Country
A severe winter storm is set to hit much of the United States, with more than 200 million Americans expected to face freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and ice starting Friday. The storm is predicted to create “extremely dangerous” conditions across the nation, with Arctic blasts of sub-zero temperatures and high wind chills.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that the storm will stretch from the High Plains and Rockies across the country to the east coast. Cities including Memphis, Nashville, Washington DC, Philadelphia, and New York are forecast to be blanketed with snow. In some areas, up to 12 inches of snow could accumulate, while others may experience wind chills as low as -23C (-10F).
The storm’s potential for widespread disruption has prompted several US states, including Arkansas, Georgia, and Texas, to declare states of emergency. Local authorities are preparing by mobilising National Guard troops, snow plows, and salt spreaders. New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that the state has over 1,600 snow plows and 114,000 tonnes of salt ready for action.
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Travel disruptions are already a concern, with over 3,200 flights cancelled for Saturday and more than 4,800 on Sunday. Airlines have offered passengers the chance to change flights without incurring extra fees. Motorists are also being advised to avoid driving, as conditions are expected to make travel “nearly impossible” during the peak of the storm.
In Texas, where temperatures had already begun to drop, officials are confident the state’s power grid will hold up better than during the 2021 winter storm that caused widespread power failures. However, local power outages due to ice and snow are still possible. Governor Greg Abbott reassured residents that the power providers are better prepared than ever.
As the storm moves across the US, the cold will persist into next week, as an Arctic air mass from Canada keeps temperatures well below freezing. Meanwhile, in Canada, freezing temperatures are already gripping the country, with additional snowfall expected in the eastern and Atlantic regions on Monday.
Authorities are urging people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, as the storm’s intensity could lead to significant disruptions in the coming days.
