NewYork: A massive winter storm has swept across the United States, leaving at least 30 people dead, hundreds of thousands without power, and major travel disruptions. Bitter cold and heavy snow have affected the Midwest, South, and Northeast, with forecasts warning of continued freezing temperatures and possible new storms this weekend.

The storm dumped over a foot of snow along a 1,300-mile stretch from Arkansas to New England. Northern areas, including Pittsburgh, received up to 20 inches, with wind chills plunging to minus 25°F (minus 31°C). Schools were closed, roads blocked, and more than 12,000 flights delayed or cancelled nationwide.

Rising death toll

At least 30 people have died due to storm-related incidents, including sledding accidents, snowplow collisions, and exposure to extreme cold. Eight people were found dead outdoors in New York City, while other deaths were reported in Tennessee, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, New Jersey, South Carolina, Kentucky, Arkansas, Texas, Massachusetts, Ohio, and Kansas.

Over 560,000 customers were without electricity Monday evening, mainly in the South. Mississippi reported severe damage to homes, businesses, and public roads. Authorities deployed warming centres with cots, blankets, water, and generators for affected residents.

Travel chaos

Flights were heavily disrupted, with Dallas–Fort Worth and other major hubs seeing delays and cancellations. Roads were treacherous due to snow, ice, and falling tree branches. The University of Mississippi and other campuses cancelled classes, while NYC public schools shifted to online lessons.

The National Weather Service warned that below-freezing temperatures would persist, with the Lower 48 states seeing the coldest average low since January 2014. Another potential winter storm could hit parts of the East Coast this weekend, extending the disruption. Residents scrambled for shelter and power. In Nashville, families booked hotel rooms to preserve food and stay warm, while emergency services worked to rescue people from frigid homes. The storm left communities across multiple states facing dangerous conditions, with recovery expected to take days.
(With AP inputs)