A powerful winter storm has swept across large parts of the United States, leaving at least 20 people dead and disrupting normal life through power outages, travel interruptions, and prolonged cold conditions.
Officials reported storm-related deaths in several states, including New York, Tennessee, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Kansas, and Pennsylvania. In Texas, a teenage girl lost her life during a sledding accident as icy terrain turned recreational areas hazardous.
New York authorities confirmed eight fatalities linked to the extreme weather since late last week. In other states, emergency officials said investigations are ongoing to determine whether severe cold and storm conditions directly contributed to reported deaths.
The storm system caused extensive damage to infrastructure, knocking out electricity for hundreds of thousands of households. Snow accumulation, freezing rain, and strong winds damaged power lines, prompting utility crews to carry out emergency repairs in difficult conditions.
Air travel across the country was heavily affected, with thousands of flights cancelled or delayed. Road travel also became increasingly dangerous as black ice and heavy snowfall reduced visibility and road safety, prompting repeated advisories from law enforcement agencies.
Several states temporarily closed schools or shifted to online classes to protect students from exposure to extreme cold. Emergency services remained on high alert, responding to weather-related incidents and assisting vulnerable populations.
Meteorologists from the National Weather Service warned that unusually low temperatures are expected to persist across much of the eastern United States. Experts noted that prolonged cold waves are becoming increasingly disruptive, highlighting the need for climate-resilient infrastructure and preparedness measures.
Although snowfall is forecast to gradually decrease in many areas, freezing temperatures are expected to remain through the week. Weather officials said residual storm activity is likely to move toward eastern Canada in the coming days.
In New York City and other urban centers, cleanup operations continued as residents navigated icy streets and sidewalks. Authorities urged the public to limit non-essential travel and follow safety guidelines until conditions stabilize.
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