Historic Snowstorm Ravages Southern US, Four Lives Lost and Thousands of Flights Canceled

A rare and historic snowstorm has struck the southern United States, bringing blizzard-like conditions and freezing temperatures that have led to the deaths of four individuals. The storm has particularly affected areas around New Orleans, Louisiana, which issued its first-ever blizzard warning. Two of the deceased succumbed to hypothermia in Georgia and Milwaukee.

The National Weather Service (NWS) reported significant snowfall across the region, with more than 10 inches recorded in Louisiana, marking the heaviest snowfall seen there in a century. Pensacola, Florida, also experienced record-breaking snowfall, receiving 6.5 inches, the highest since the 1890s.

The impact of the storm has been severe, resulting in the cancellation of over 2,200 flights nationwide and delays for more than 3,000 others. Officials have urged residents to avoid travel, as hazardous conditions continue. In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency in multiple counties due to similar winter weather challenges.

As the storm moves across the Gulf Coast, meteorologists warn of heavy snowfall accumulation, with predictions of up to one inch of snow falling per hour in areas spanning from the western Florida Panhandle to eastern Texas.

With temperatures plummeting and dangerous driving conditions reported, residents are advised to stay safe and adhere to local emergency protocols as this unprecedented winter storm unfolds.