Severe Winter Storm Hits US, Claims Three Lives and Disrupts Power

A severe winter storm has struck the United States, resulting in the deaths of at least three individuals and leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity. According to a report from the BBC, approximately 900,000 households were without power by Sunday afternoon, March 12, 2024. The storm has triggered widespread school closures, flight cancellations, and hazardous travel conditions across the country.

Heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain are expected to continue for several days. Alison Santorelli, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, emphasized the challenges that lie ahead, stating, “Snow and ice will melt very slowly and will not disappear anytime soon, complicating recovery efforts.”

In Louisiana, health officials confirmed that two men died from hypothermia as a result of the severe conditions. The Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul, has urged residents to stay indoors and avoid using vehicles. Meanwhile, Andy Beshear, the Governor of Kentucky, reported that the state is experiencing more ice than initially predicted, which is raising concerns about safety.

The storm poses significant risks, particularly due to ice, which can damage trees, down power lines, and create unsafe road conditions. Nearly half of the states have declared a state of emergency, and schools are preemptively cancelling classes in anticipation of continued severe weather on Monday.

As of Sunday, over 10,000 flights were cancelled, according to FlightAware. The U.S. Senate has also postponed a scheduled vote for Monday evening due to the adverse weather conditions. The impact of this winter storm is widespread, affecting daily life and raising concerns about public safety.

With the storm still ongoing, residents are advised to take precautions, including staying informed through local weather updates and preparing for possible extended power outages. Emergency services are on high alert as they monitor the situation and respond to incidents related to the severe weather.