More than half of the United States is bracing for a massive winter storm as severe weather conditions spread from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Lakes and the eastern parts of the country.
Several regions, including Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas, witnessed fresh snowfall on Friday, which officials say is just the beginning of a larger storm system expected to combine with bitter Arctic cold. The storm is likely to bring heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain, causing widespread disruptions across the country.
Panic buying empties grocery stores
As storm warnings intensified, Americans rushed to grocery stores to stock up on essentials. However, many were met with nearly empty shelves. According to a Fox Business report, panic buying was reported across states such as Mississippi and Texas, as well as Washington DC.
Basic necessities like water and milk quickly went out of stock. Items such as eggs, sausage and hot dogs were also available only in limited quantities, highlighting growing concerns among residents ahead of the storm.
Flight disruptions across the country
The severe weather has already begun impacting air travel. Flight tracking website FlightAware reported that more than 1,000 flights were delayed or cancelled on Friday, while around 2,300 flights were called off for Saturday.
With dangerous temperatures expected to drop further, airlines have warned passengers to stay alert for sudden changes to their travel plans.
Power outages and infrastructure risks
Authorities have warned that freezing rain and heavy snowfall could damage power lines, leading to prolonged outages. Officials in cities like Nashville and Charlotte have urged residents to prepare for frozen pipes, power cuts and impassable roads.
AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham told Reuters that parts of Dallas could face power outages lasting several days.
The eastern two-thirds of the US is now under threat, with states like New York and New Jersey forecast to experience heavy snow from early Sunday through Monday. Weather experts warn this could significantly impact daily life and transportation.A similar winter storm in 2021 had claimed dozens of lives and left millions without electricity for days.
Air India cancels US flights
Citing passenger and crew safety, Air India announced the cancellation of all flights to and from New York and Newark on January 25 and 26.
In a statement, the airline said its teams are ready to assist affected passengers and provide necessary support.
Leave a Reply