A record-breaking winter storm has put over 200 million Americans at risk and caused power outages in approximately 500,000 homes, with temperatures expected to drop as low as -37C.
Severe cold alerts have been declared throughout the US, spanning from New England to the Rocky Mountains in the West. A total of 37 states have felt the impact of the extreme weather patterns.
Unprecedented heavy snow and ice have made their way into historically warm regions such as Arkansas and Tennessee. In response to the potentially perilous storm, at least 20 states have declared a state of emergency, and nine have mobilized the National Guard.
The National Weather Service has warned of significant ice build-up, leading to possible extended power failures, widespread tree destruction, and highly treacherous or impassable travel conditions.
This severe weather has caused significant disruptions in travel across the nation, resulting in over 13,000 flight cancellations – the highest single-day number since the onset of the Covid pandemic.
In a bid to stock up on essentials, anxious shoppers have been seen rushing to make last-minute purchases amid barren store shelves.
From workers clearing snow in Philadelphia to icy road alerts in Dallas, Texas, and individuals navigating snow-covered streets in Kansas City, Missouri, the storm’s impacts are being felt across the country.
As major travel chaos ensues, scenes of stranded travelers at La Guardia Airport in New York and snowfall at the Capitol in Washington DC paint a picture of the storm’s widespread effects.
Capturing the essence of the extreme conditions, a man snaps a photo of ice formations on Lake Michigan in Chicago, while individuals brave the snow and ice to prepare and stock up on supplies.