A fierce winter storm roared through parts of the United States over the weekend, delivering what could be the heaviest snowfall in a decade. With snow, ice, and frigid temperatures blanketing regions from Kansas to Maryland, the storm has created hazardous travel conditions, shattered snowfall records, and caused widespread disruptions.
States like Kansas and Missouri have seen up to 14 inches (36 cm) of snow, with gusting winds up to 45 mph (72 kph) producing blizzard-like conditions. Kentucky recorded its own historic snowfall, with Louisville receiving 7.7 inches (19.5 cm) in a single day, surpassing a century-old record. Upstate New York faced even harsher conditions, with lake-effect snow piling up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) in some areas.
The polar vortex’s icy grip has extended far south, bringing freezing conditions to states as far as Florida. Meteorologists attribute this extreme weather to the warming Arctic, which has led to more frequent polar vortex disruptions.
Travel has been severely impacted, with hundreds of car accidents reported and thousands of motorists stranded across multiple states. Rail and air travel have also faced significant cancellations. St. Louis Lambert International Airport alone saw nearly 200 flights canceled, while Amtrak suspended services on several routes.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel as snowplows and emergency responders work tirelessly. States such as Indiana, Kentucky, and Virginia have declared emergencies and activated the National Guard to assist stranded travelers.
With bone-chilling temperatures set to drop as low as 25 degrees below average, the National Weather Service warns of frostbite risks for those exposed to the elements. Schools and workplaces have preemptively closed in anticipation of continued dangerous conditions.
As the storm pushes into the Mid-Atlantic, Americans brace for another round of icy chaos and arctic cold. Stay safe, stay warm, and heed local advisories!
