A powerful winter storm sweeping across large parts of the United States has left at least a dozen people dead, grounded thousands of flights, and plunged hundreds of thousands of residents into darkness.
Freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall battered the region, worsening travel disruptions and power outages.
The storm stretched from Texas to Maine over the weekend, snarling roadways, toppling trees, and knocking out power supplies while burying major cities under thick layers of snow.
Some parts of the northeastern US recorded more than 20 inches of snowfall within 24 hours, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Canadian authorities also reported major disruptions, particularly in southern Ontario, where transportation systems and schools were affected.
Forecasters have warned that another significant winter storm could hit the eastern US later this week, potentially bringing dangerously cold temperatures and heavy precipitation.
More than 200,000 people in Tennessee were without electricity by Monday afternoon as freezing temperatures spread across the state.
In Nashville, fallen trees and downed power lines blocked roads, making travel nearly impossible.
Joy Flores, vice president of the Nashville Rescue Mission homeless shelter, said the facility had received numerous calls from residents who had lost power.
She described icy road conditions and said her own home had been left without heating or internet access.
In New York City, officials reported eight deaths between Friday and Monday morning as temperatures dropped into single digits.
Central Park recorded 11.4 inches of snow by Monday, according to the NWS.
In Texas, police said a teenage girl died and another was critically injured following a sledding accident during the storm.
Authorities in North Carolina said a man was found dead along a highway in Buncombe County, with investigators examining whether severe weather played a role.
Meanwhile, Louisiana’s Department of Health confirmed that two deaths in the state were linked to hypothermia.
Travel Chaos and Flight Disruptions
Air travel remained heavily disrupted on Monday, with passengers facing widespread delays and cancellations.
Data from FlightAware showed more than 19,000 flight delays and nearly 5,900 cancellations across the US.
In Canada, Ottawa and Quebec were among the hardest-hit areas, with multiple school closures and transportation delays.
Toronto Pearson International Airport recorded 18.1 inches (46cm) of snowfall on Sunday, setting a new record for the airport.
More Severe Weather Possible
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey warned residents that the storm’s impact was not yet over, as additional snowfall was expected across the state.
The National Weather Service said the likelihood of another winter storm beginning on Friday was increasing, though forecasters are still uncertain about its path and potential impact.
Authorities across affected regions continue to urge residents to exercise caution as extreme winter conditions persist.
