A massive winter storm has swept across the United States, leaving more than 4,000 flights canceled and over 160,000 electricity customers without power as of Saturday. The storm, which has already impacted the southern U.S., is expected to continue affecting the eastern states with heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and dangerously low temperatures into next week.
Main details of what happened:
The storm has caused widespread disruptions, with forecasters predicting “historic” conditions. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain are expected to blanket much of the eastern U.S., while frigid temperatures continue to spread through the Great Plains. The storm has already resulted in power outages, primarily in Louisiana and Texas, as crews work to restore electricity. By Saturday evening, over 160,000 people were without power, and the number was expected to rise.
The U.S. Department of Energy issued an emergency order allowing Texas to deploy backup generation resources to prevent blackouts in critical areas, such as data centers. The National Weather Service has warned of severe ice accumulation in the southeastern U.S., with the potential for “crippling” impacts.
More than 4,000 flights were canceled on Saturday, and an additional 9,400 flights were affected on Sunday. Major airlines, including Delta, JetBlue, and United, have been adjusting schedules and preparing for further disruptions. Delta has also moved experts from colder hubs to assist with de-icing and baggage handling at airports in the South.
Relevant background or context:
In response to the storm, President Donald Trump approved federal emergency disaster declarations for several states, including South Carolina, Virginia, and Louisiana. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has also declared weather emergencies in 17 states and the District of Columbia. Secretary Kristi Noem urged residents to prepare for extreme cold and recommended stocking up on food and fuel.
What happens next, if confirmed:
With continued power outages and widespread flight cancellations, authorities are urging citizens to take extra precautions. U.S. electric grid operators have heightened their readiness to avoid rolling blackouts, and federal and local authorities will continue to monitor the situation.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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