A powerful winter storm has swept across large parts of the United States over the weekend and into Monday, disrupting daily life, grounding thousands of flights, and prompting emergency measures in several states.
State of Emergency Declared in New York and New Jersey
Authorities declared a state of emergency in New York and New Jersey as the storm intensified. The emergency order is expected to remain in effect until at least Monday afternoon local time, allowing officials to respond quickly to hazardous conditions caused by heavy snowfall, strong winds, and plunging temperatures.
According to BBC, more than 10 centimeters of snow fell in New York’s Central Park on Sunday alone—the heaviest snowfall the city has seen since 2022.
Thousands of Flights Cancelled or Delayed
The severe weather has caused widespread travel chaos. Over the weekend, at least 900 flights were cancelled, while more than 8,000 flights were delayed across the country. Major airports in the Northeast and Midwest were particularly affected, leaving thousands of passengers stranded or facing long delays.
Airlines advised travelers to check flight status regularly and rebook where possible, as weather-related disruptions are expected to continue while the storm system moves across the country.
Powerful Cold Front Stretches Across the US
On Monday morning, ABC News reported that a strong cold front extended from the northeastern United States all the way down to Texas. Wind warnings were issued across a vast region that is home to nearly 125 million people.
Wind speeds in some areas are expected to exceed 26 meters per second, increasing the risk of power outages, fallen trees, and dangerous driving conditions. Meteorologists also warn that temperatures could drop well below seasonal averages, raising concerns about frostbite and hypothermia.
Blizzard Warnings Across the Midwest
Several Midwestern states are facing especially severe conditions. Blizzard warnings are in effect in Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and parts of Michigan.
In some areas of Michigan, snowfall has already exceeded 30 centimeters, and winds are expected to reach speeds of over 22 meters per second, creating whiteout conditions and making travel extremely dangerous.
Stay Safe and Informed
Officials are urging residents to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather
- Monitor local weather alerts and emergency updates
- Prepare for possible power outages
- Dress in layers and limit exposure to extreme cold
As the winter storm continues its path across the United States, authorities and weather agencies are closely monitoring conditions and advising the public to stay alert and prioritize safety.
