A significant winter storm has imperiled over 200 million Americans and caused power outages in approximately 500,000 homes, with temperatures potentially dropping to as low as -37C.
Severe cold alerts have been issued throughout the United States, spanning from New England to the southern Rocky Mountains in the West. A total of 37 states have been impacted by the extreme weather conditions.
Unprecedented heavy snowfall and ice have reached traditionally warmer regions like Arkansas and Tennessee. At least 20 states have declared a state of emergency, and nine have mobilized the National Guard in response to the potentially hazardous storm.
The National Weather Service has warned that the storm is expected to result in significant to potentially disastrous ice build-ups, leading to prolonged power failures, extensive damage to trees, and extremely risky or impassable travel conditions.
This severe weather has also caused major disruptions in travel across the nation, with over 13,000 flights being canceled – the highest single-day cancellation rate since the onset of the Covid pandemic.
Images have captured frantic shoppers attempting to hoard food and supplies as store shelves remain empty.
In various locations such as Philadelphia, New York City, Dallas, Kansas City, La Guardia Airport, Washington DC, and Chicago, individuals are seen dealing with snow, ice, and travel disruptions.