Rare Snow and Freezing Cold Sweep Across Southern US States

A rare winter storm has brought frigid temperatures and historic snowfall to parts of the US Deep South, disrupting travel and daily life across the region. The extreme weather has closed highways, grounded flights, and prompted emergency declarations in several states, including Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

Historic Snowfall and Unprecedented Blizzard Warnings

The National Weather Service (NWS) reported a historic snowfall along the Gulf Coast, with snow falling at a rate of over an inch per hour. For the first time ever, a blizzard warning was issued in southwest Louisiana.

Temperatures have plummeted well below seasonal averages, threatening to break long-standing record lows from the Gulf Coast to the Tennessee Valley.

Emergency Measures in Effect

Governors in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama declared states of emergency to address the harsh winter conditions.

Impact on Millions

The extreme cold has affected an estimated 40 million people in the southern US. Major cities like Houston and New Orleans, more accustomed to hurricanes than snowstorms, have seen significant snowfall.

Schools in several districts canceled classes, and Houston’s three major airports suspended flight operations. By Tuesday morning, over 2,000 flights were canceled, and 13,000 were delayed nationwide, according to FlightAware.

Travel Disruptions Expected to Linger

NWS warned that even after the snow stops falling, “widespread” travel disruptions are likely to persist for several days. Both air and road travel are expected to remain challenging as the region grapples with the rare winter storm.

Conclusion

The combination of record-breaking snowfall and freezing temperatures has brought an unusual winter experience to the southern US, creating challenges for millions.

As the storm moves eastward, authorities urge residents to exercise caution and stay informed about weather updates and travel advisories.