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Rare Snowstorm Paralyzes U.S. South and Parts of Canada




Overview


A historic snowstorm has swept across the southern United States, bringing freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and widespread disruptions. This rare weather event, which began earlier this week, has impacted regions unaccustomed to such conditions, including Florida, Louisiana, and Georgia.


Key Impacts


  1. Record-Breaking Snowfall:

    • Florida reported 8 inches of snow, doubling its previous record of 4 inches set in 1954, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

    • Louisiana recorded the highest snowfall total in the region, with 10.5 inches in Rayne by Tuesday afternoon.

  2. Travel Chaos:

    • Over 1,600 flights within the U.S. were canceled on Wednesday morning, with nearly 1,800 delays.

    • Highways in Texas and Louisiana remain closed due to ice, and power outages are widespread.

  3. Power Outages:

    • Over 108,000 customers across Georgia (44,391) and Florida (35,435) were without electricity as of Wednesday morning.


Emergency Declarations


  • Southern States: Governors in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida declared states of emergency to address the unprecedented cold and snow. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis noted the state’s infrastructure is not designed to handle snow, urging residents to stay home.

  • New York: New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in western counties, with some areas near Lake Ontario bracing for up to 3 feet of snow.

  • Canada: Parts of Ontario and Quebec are under extreme cold warnings, with wind chills as low as -50°C (-58°F).


Ongoing Weather Concerns


  • The storm, originating in Texas on Monday, is advancing eastward, threatening North and South Carolina.

  • The NWS forecasts below-average temperatures across the region, with potential record lows in the Tennessee Valley.

  • Travel disruptions could persist for days due to lingering ice and snow, compounded by a lack of road-clearing equipment in southern states.


Widespread Alerts


  • Population Affected: Approximately 40 million people in the southern U.S. are under weather advisories. An additional 170 million across the eastern U.S. face extreme cold warnings.

  • Health and Safety Risks: Officials are urging caution as icy roads and subzero temperatures heighten risks of accidents and cold exposure.


What’s Next?


The historic snowstorm is expected to continue disrupting daily life in affected regions through the week. State and local agencies are working to restore power and ensure public safety, while residents are advised to remain indoors and avoid travel where possible. For real-time updates, visit the National Weather Service website or tune in to local news channels.


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