Deadly Winter Storm Sweeps Across US, Leaving Destruction and Power Outages
A massive winter storm sweeping across the United States has claimed three lives in Mississippi and left tens of thousands without power, officials confirmed. Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves expressed condolences, acknowledging the severe impact of high winds, which downed trees and power lines across the state.
The storm, which has affected regions from the central Plains to the East Coast, brought blizzards to the Midwest, hurricane-force winds to Texas, and tornadoes to Oklahoma and Texas.
Power outages were widespread, with 38,000 residents left in the dark in Mississippi and nearly 190,000 customers affected in St. Louis, Missouri. Texas also faced severe disruptions due to extreme winds. The National Weather Service issued multiple warnings, including a tornado watch for Louisiana and Mississippi, forcing Mardi Gras parades to be canceled or modified. Minnesota’s governor activated the National Guard as snow and blizzard conditions paralyzed roads across the upper Midwest.
Authorities urged caution, warning travelers to stay off the roads due to treacherous conditions and low visibility caused by strong winds and blowing snow. In addition to the winter hazards, parts of Texas faced a high wildfire risk due to strong winds and dry conditions. With tornado watches in effect for the Carolinas and Virginia, the storm’s reach continues to challenge communities nationwide.
