Rare Winter Storm Grips the US, Brings Arctic Cold to Over 75% of the Nation

Rare Winter Storm Hits US, Arctic Cold Grips 75% of Nation | The Enterprise World

Freezing Temperatures and Snow Disrupt the Northeast

A significant winter storm has plunged much of the United States into a deep freeze, with Arctic air sweeping south from Canada and snow blanketing the Northeast. Over 70 million people, from Tennessee to Maine, were under winter weather advisories and storm warnings on Sunday. Cities along the I-95 corridor, including Washington, DC, New York, and Boston, faced significant snowfall, ranging from 1 to 8 inches. Philadelphia declared a snow emergency as temperatures plummeted below freezing Sunday night.

The severe cold prompted emergency measures in several areas. Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser activated a cold weather emergency, warning of dangerously low overnight temperatures. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency, urging residents to stay off the roads. The storm caused widespread travel chaos, with over 1,100 flight cancellations and delays affecting major airports, including Newark Liberty and LaGuardia.

Southern States Brace for Unprecedented Cold

As the storm moves south, states unaccustomed to winter weather are preparing for rare and potentially crippling conditions. Texas and Louisiana have declared states of emergency, while Houston faces disruptions, including airport closures and school cancellations through mid-week. The National Weather Service warned of up to 5 inches of snow in Houston, accompanied by freezing rain and icy roads. Officials emphasized the risk of ruptured water pipes and urged residents to take precautions.

Houston Mayor John Whitmire announced the opening of 24-hour warming centers, encouraging residents to protect vulnerable populations. The Gulf Coast and Southeast are also under winter storm watches, with heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain forecast to impact areas as far south as Interstate 10. The storm’s impacts could result in power outages and fallen trees due to ice accumulation.

Extreme Cold Engulfs the Nation

Arctic air has created dangerously low temperatures for millions, with nearly 150 million people under cold weather alerts. Forecasters warned of frostbite risks, frozen pipes, and travel disruptions as temperatures are expected to plummet 20 to 30 degrees below normal in several regions. Denver is forecasted to experience a high of just 9 degrees, while Southern cities like Atlanta and Birmingham may not rise above freezing for days.

Wind chill will exacerbate the cold, with gusts of 15 to 25 mph making conditions feel even colder. In the Midwest and Northern Plains, wind chills could drop as low as minus 50, posing a serious threat to exposed skin. Officials across affected states are urging residents to remain indoors and utilize warming shelters to avoid the severe weather.

The rare winter storm underscores the nation’s vulnerability to extreme cold and the importance of preparation, as it continues to bring unprecedented conditions to both the North and the South.

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