Major Winter Storm in the U.S. Leaves Widespread Power Outage, 37 Deaths and Travel Disruptions

A recent report showed that a major winter storm rampaged portions of the United States, disrupting many Americans' Christmas and holidays. The report said the extremely cold weather, blizzard conditions, and heavy snow left widespread power outages, travel disruptions, and 37 deaths.

As of Sunday, the severe winter has weakened. However, residents in the affected area should keep an eye out for prolonged exposure to the cold and extremely hazardous roads. 

(Photo : Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images

Weather forecasts and news agencies warned that a major winter storm could unfold on Christmas week as many Americans planned their travel activities and holiday.

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The extreme cold weather and heavy snow, with freezing conditions, became problematic for the urgency of medical emergencies and rescues as the severe weather unloaded zero road visibility and dangerous travel.

Major winter storm in the U.S

According to a recent CNN report, severe weather conditions in the United States and a major winter storm resulted in 37 deaths and widespread power outages across the country as residents struggled to cope with the bitter cold. 

Many locals had to endure bitterly cold temperatures and blizzard conditions prior to Christmas. According to the CNN report, the country's main roads were affected by the heavy snowfall brought on by the extreme cold weather. 

In the previous report, residents in Buffalo, New York, suffered from heavy lake-effect snow and winter storm, causing significant travel delays. Many residents were left stranded under the freezing cold. 

The report said that emergency responders found zero visibility and heavy snow extremely difficult to navigate impassable roads. 16 people died as a result of the winter storm in Erie County, New York. 

The coldest Christmas and challenging weather conditions unfolded in the United States, especially in New York City, Florida, East Coast and Midwest.

Flight delays and cancellations were caused by the inclement weather. According to the report, approximately 2,800 flights were canceled on Christmas Day, affecting many residents with travel plans. 

Power outages

The threat of power outages also occurred, bringing many Americans to an extremely difficult state, enduring the freezing weather without electricity, particularly in New York City.

According to a CNN report, approximately 250,000 homeowners and businesses shouldered the brunt of power outages as of Sunday.

Power facilities were doing their best to restore electricity to affected communities. Due to the severe winter conditions, many Americans consumed more electricity than usual, stretching the power supply in the United States.

As a result, power facilities and operators urged customers to conserve electricity. PJM Interconnection who serves about 65 million people in the U.S. urge customers to conserve electricity in order to avoid rolling blackouts. 

Although the severe winter storm is expected to weaken this week, the forecast explained that travel hazards could persist due to heavy snow and slick roads. Motorists who plan to travel this week should be aware of weather forecasts and road hazards.

Furthermore, due to the blast of arctic air, the weather will continue to become colder than usual. Forecasts, as emphasized, advised residents and motorists to avoid prolonged exposure to colder weather. 

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