Several states across the United States are facing one of the most severe snowstorms in years, severely disrupting daily life and resulting in the deaths of at least seven people due to storm-related incidents.
According to US media reports, dozens of states, including Washington, New York, Texas, Oklahoma, and New Jersey, are experiencing heavy snowfall, rain, and freezing winds, bringing normal activities to a near standstill. In rural areas of New York, temperatures have plunged to as low as minus 49 degrees.
The extreme weather conditions have led to the cancellation of more than 16,000 flights nationwide, while over 800,000 consumers have been left without electricity, causing widespread hardship.
Reports indicate that emergency measures have been imposed in 24 states due to the snowstorm, while the freezing temperatures could potentially affect more than 240 million people across 40 states.
US media further reports that 6 to 10 inches of snow are expected in Washington and surrounding areas, prompting the closure of federal offices on Monday and the shift to online classes in New York City schools.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said during a press briefing that the state is experiencing its most intense winter storm in several years, with dangerously cold conditions prevailing across the region. She noted that temperatures have dropped to minus 34 degrees in Watertown and minus 49 degrees in the village of Copenhagen, while snowfall ranging from 8 to 18 inches is expected in various areas.
The governor urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow safety precautions.
The meteorological department has warned that the effects of the snowstorm in the United States are likely to persist into the coming week.
