A powerful winter storm is sweeping across much of the United States, affecting over 140 million people with heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Sixteen states plus Washington DC have declared states of emergency as the storm brings dangerous conditions from New Mexico to New England.
Widespread power outages are reported, with more than 130,000 customers without electricity. Dominion Energy is preparing for outages in Virginia and North Carolina. Ice accumulation of up to a quarter of an inch has been recorded in parts of Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana, with forecasters warning of catastrophic ice buildup exceeding one inch in some areas.
Three people were found dead on New York City streets on Saturday due to weather-related circumstances. Travel disruptions are severe, with nearly 14,000 flights cancelled through Monday. Major highways, including Interstate 40 near Little Rock, are at a standstill due to accidents and icy conditions.
Meteorologist Allison Santorelli of the National Weather Service noted that the storm's aftermath will bring bitterly cold temperatures, slowing melting and hindering recovery efforts. The NWS urged Americans to take the storm seriously, warning of extended power outages, tree damage, and dangerous travel conditions.
