A severe winter storm has frozen daily life across the United States, and 30 people have died in various incidents linked to heavy snowfall and dangerously cold conditions.
The storm has brought intense snowfall, rain, and biting winds to dozens of states, including Washington, New York, Texas, Oklahoma, and New Jersey, disrupting travel and routine activities and creating widespread hardship.
Around 19,000 flights have been cancelled nationwide, while federal offices in Washington have been closed. From Arkansas to New England, more than a foot of snow has already accumulated in several areas, forcing authorities to shut roads and educational institutions due to hazardous conditions.
In northern parts near Pittsburgh, snowfall has reached up to 20 inches, and temperatures have dropped to as low as minus 31 degrees Celsius. In some areas, residents are experiencing the most severe cold in decades. Reports also say eight bodies were found in open areas in New York City.
More than one million people are without electricity due to the storm. Extreme cold warnings have been issued for nearly 200 million people across 44 states, and emergencies have been declared in 24 states.
Meteorological authorities have warned that the cold spell may intensify in the coming days, and another winter storm could potentially impact parts of the eastern coastal regions, further worsening conditions.
