Winter Storm Wreaks Havoc Across the United States
A powerful winter storm is sweeping across the United States, bringing with it heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain, and prompting widespread flight cancellations and states of emergency. As of Saturday, over 11,000 U.S. flights have been canceled for the weekend, with Sunday expected to be even worse, according to flight tracking site FlightAware.
The storm’s impact is being felt across the country, with at least 17 states and Washington, D.C., declaring states of emergency, allowing for the activation of emergency response programs and state assistance for operations. Nine states have activated their National Guards to aid in response efforts. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has urged Americans to stay off the roads over the next two days, citing the dangers of the storm.
Severe Weather Conditions and Power Outages
Forecasters are warning of heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain from the Southern Rockies to New England, along with dangerous wind chills. Over 200 million people are under winter storm threats, with the majority of homes in at least 11 Southern states relying on electricity for heat, raising concerns about power outages. As of midday Saturday, over 54,000 power outages were reported in Texas, with more than 11,000 reported in both New Mexico and Louisiana.
Chris Johnson, the assistant director of operations and field services at Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, expressed concern about power outages, stating that his “biggest concern” is the potential for widespread outages followed by frigid temperatures. He noted that the 2021 ice storm in Texas, which knocked out power for days, resulted in over 200 deaths, with some caused by carbon monoxide poisoning from improper use of generators and propane heaters.
Flight Disruptions and Travel Waivers
Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport has canceled most of its scheduled flights, while Nashville International Airport has canceled over half. Southwest Airlines dispatcher Emily Estapa told “CBS Saturday Morning” that airlines are working to prevent unnecessary travel to airports, with many airlines implementing travel waiver programs to allow fliers to reschedule their trips at no cost.
Gus Hudson, the senior deputy general manager for operations at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world, stated that the facility’s winter storm team is treating runways and taxiways, but expects operations to be slower due to the storm. The effects of the storm are expected to last for days, with frigid temperatures forecasted to follow the ice and snow.
Preparation and Safety Measures
As the storm continues to move across the country, officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This includes staying off the roads, using caution when walking or driving, and avoiding the use of propane heaters or generators indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
For the latest updates and information on the winter storm, visit Here for the most recent news and developments.
Image Source: www.cbsnews.com
