The central and eastern United States have been battered by a series of powerful winter storms, resulting in a tragic loss of life. As of Monday, officials have confirmed at least 14 fatalities due to the severe weather conditions. The storms have unleashed a combination of devastating floods, fierce gale-force winds, and dangerously low temperatures across the region.
Kentucky has been particularly hard hit, with the death toll rising to 12 in the state. Governor Andy Beshear announced the grim news on Monday, stating that most of the victims were trapped in their vehicles and drowned by rapidly rising floodwaters. Among the casualties were a mother and her child. Beshear has declared a state of emergency and urged residents to stay off the roads as rescue efforts continue. Over 1,000 people have been rescued by first responders in the past 24 hours alone.
In West Virginia, Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed at least one death and warned of potential further flooding, with several people still missing. The southern city of Atlanta, Georgia, also reported a fatality when a large tree fell on a house.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings about an arctic air mass that is expected to bring “record cold” temperatures to Montana and North Dakota, with wind chill values potentially reaching as low as -60 degrees Fahrenheit. The bitter cold is forecast to spread across the central plains, the eastern seaboard, and as far south as the Gulf coast in the coming days.
While power has been restored to some areas, over 50,000 customers in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland remain without electricity. The storms have caused widespread disruption, and residents are advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to stay safe in the face of the ongoing severe weather.
Join our whatsapp group for Latest updates