A major storm has impacted the U.S., causing severe winds, blizzard conditions, and fires. At least two fatalities have been reported in Mississippi, with significant storm damage noted in Texas and Oklahoma. The storm is moving toward the East Coast, threatening areas from Florida to New York with strong winds and possible tornadoes. Over 400,000 power outages have occurred amid widespread disruptions to air travel.
A substantial and complex storm has impacted various regions of the United States, accompanying fierce winds, blizzard conditions, and destructive fires. The storm was particularly severe in Dallas, Texas, characterized by strong winds that lifted red dust, igniting numerous fires across the state. Reports indicate that at least 15 fire incidents were recorded by the National Weather Service in both San Antonio and Austin.
The storm’s intense low-pressure system in the Midwest has generated strong winds spanning from the Plains to the Southeast. Tragically, two fatalities occurred in Madison County, Mississippi, attributed to storm-related incidents, including electrocution and a fatal tree fall on a vehicle. The storm is expected to reach the East Coast, with the potential for damaging winds and tornadoes from Charleston, South Carolina to southern Virginia.
The Deep South has begun to experience the storm’s severe effects, particularly with damaging storms rolling through Alabama, Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle. This threat will extend eastward, impacting northern Florida through to Pennsylvania. Meanwhile, the East Coast, especially the Carolinas and Mid-Atlantic regions, is anticipated to endure torrential storms with robust winds and severe thunderstorm activity.
Texas has reported a high risk of fire due to strong winds affecting Atascosa County, where multiple house fires ensued. Furthermore, across the Midwest, blizzard conditions loom, primarily in populous areas like Kansas City, Omaha, and Des Moines, with gusts reaching between 50 to 70 mph.
Power outages have been widespread, with residents across central U.S. states encountering losses due to fierce thunderstorms that have produced wind gusts exceeding 70 mph. Over 400,000 homes and businesses are currently without power, as reported by PowerOutage.us.
A significant dust storm, known officially as a haboob, accompanied by fast-moving winds, is being observed, particularly in Texas, though wind speeds have since diminished. The severe weather has wreaked havoc on various infrastructures in Texas and Oklahoma, resulting in extensive damage, especially in urban areas like Dallas.
Major structural damage was reported at the Benjamin Moore paint facility in Lewisville, following the storm’s onset, and officials noted numerous downed power lines in the surrounding areas. Additionally, close proximity to Austin saw at least eight fire incidents, mostly contained by emergency services.
Reports indicate substantial wind damage across a 100-mile stretch from Texas to Mississippi, with the National Weather Service noting four EF1 tornadoes inflicted damage along their paths. Flights have also faced widespread disruptions, with approximately 800 cancellations and over 4,000 delays recorded due to severe wind gusts at airports across the region.
As the storm progresses, severe thunderstorms are predicted to continue impacting the Southeast and extend to the Northeast. A tornado watch remains in effect for parts of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. The Storm Prediction Center has identified approximately 29 million people at risk, while around 8 million in the Carolinas and southern Virginia sit within a higher risk category for severe thunderstorms.
In summary, a powerful storm system has caused widespread destruction and safety concerns across the United States. With severe winds, blizzard conditions, and significant fire risks reported, many regions are bracing for further impacts. The storm has already led to tragic fatalities, extensive power outages, and hazardous travel disruptions. As the storm moves toward the East Coast, the threat of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes remains prevalent, emphasizing the urgent need for vigilance among residents in affected areas.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
