As a dangerous winter storm sweeps across the northern United States, residents in several states are facing blinding snow, freezing rain, bitter cold temperatures, and whipping winds. This storm comes after a week of strong winter weather that has resulted in deadly avalanches and treacherous road conditions. Tragically, there have already been multiple fatalities reported due to the severe weather.
In Idaho, an avalanche in the backcountry near the Montana border claimed the life of one man, while two others were rescued. A man in Wisconsin also died while snow-blowing his driveway. Additionally, a suburban Chicago man was found dead in Schiller Park, with authorities determining that his death was weather-related.
The storm has also caused significant disruptions to travel, with thousands of flights cancelled or delayed. US airlines have cancelled over 2,000 flights, while more than 7,000 flights have experienced delays, according to FlightAware, a flight-tracking website.
Areas in the Midwest, such as south-western Minnesota and the Green Bay area of Wisconsin, are under blizzard warnings. The Milwaukee area is expected to receive heavy snowfall and gusty winds throughout the weekend. In Michigan, over 130,000 customers are without electricity due to power outages caused by the storm.
The Dakotas are particularly vulnerable to the extreme cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -20F (-29C). Chicago is also bracing for several inches of snow and wind chills well below zero. The frigid weather poses a significant concern for individuals seeking shelter, including asylum seekers who have recently arrived at the US-Mexico border and have been sent to Chicago. To accommodate them, the city has deployed “warming buses” where dozens of people can find temporary refuge.
As the storm moves eastward, flooding concerns have emerged in parts of the northeast. Emergency responders in Paterson, New Jersey, assisted in evacuating residents as the Passaic River began to overflow its banks. Similar flooding worries have been reported in Maine and New Hampshire.
The south is also experiencing severe weather conditions, with storms bringing strong winds in Mississippi. Arctic air is set to arrive in the region over the weekend, prompting the Mississippi emergency management agency to issue warnings about ice, frigid temperatures, and possible power outages. Louisiana has declared a state of emergency in preparation for the incoming cold front.
Volunteers and city leaders are also focused on the welfare of unhoused individuals. In Portland, Oregon, where snow is uncommon, efforts are being made to provide warm clothing and shelter to those without homes.
As the winter storm continues its path across the country, residents are urged to take necessary precautions to stay safe in these challenging weather conditions.
[Restate the key facts:]
– A dangerous winter storm is sweeping the northern US, causing blinding snow, freezing rain, and bitter cold temperatures.
– Fatalities have been reported in Idaho, Wisconsin, and Chicago, with authorities determining that some deaths were weather-related.
– Thousands of flights have been cancelled or delayed across the US.
– Blizzard warnings are in effect for parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin.
– Power outages have left over 130,000 customers without electricity in Michigan.
– The Dakotas and Chicago are experiencing extreme cold temperatures.
– Flood concerns have emerged in the northeast, with emergency evacuations in New Jersey.
– The south is facing severe storms and is preparing for frigid temperatures.
– Efforts are being made to assist unhoused individuals during the storm.