Winter storm in America: 35 dead and thousands of flights canceled
The death toll from the winter storm in America to at least 35, as the United States continues to grapple with one of the most severe cold waves and extreme weather conditions to hit the country in decades. These harsh weather conditions, described by meteorologists as "historic," have brought life to a near standstill in several states, leaving behind significant human and material losses.
Details of the winter storm and human losses
US media and official reports indicate that the deaths were primarily caused by horrific traffic accidents due to poor visibility and icy roads, as well as fatalities resulting from freezing temperatures, which led to some people, particularly the homeless or those trapped in their vehicles, suffering fatal hypothermia. Rescue teams are working under extremely difficult conditions to reach the affected areas, amid warnings that the death toll could rise as the storm continues.
Paralysis in air traffic and airports
In the transportation sector, the storm caused widespread chaos in air travel, especially as it coincided with the holiday season. According to FlightAware, a website specializing in flight tracking, more than 19,000 flights have been canceled since last Saturday, and thousands more have been delayed. Operations at major airports serving Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City were almost completely paralyzed, leaving thousands of frustrated and anxious passengers stranded in waiting areas.
The "bomb cyclone" phenomenon and the climate context
Climate experts indicate that the intensity of this storm is due to a phenomenon known as a "bomb cyclone," which occurs when atmospheric pressure drops sharply and rapidly, generating powerful winds and heavy snowfall. This storm is an extension of a very cold polar air front that swept from Canada, covering vast areas of the United States and extending its effects even to southern regions that rarely experience such weather.
Infrastructure impacts and power outages
The storm's damage wasn't limited to transportation and loss of life; it also impacted energy infrastructure, leaving hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses without power across multiple states, exacerbating the suffering of residents in sub-zero temperatures. Maintenance crews face immense challenges in restoring electricity due to snow accumulation and high winds that are hindering repair efforts.
Authorities warn of frost risks
For its part, the National Weather Service renewed its stark warnings, noting that perceived temperatures could reach dangerously high, life-threatening levels within minutes upon direct outdoor exposure. Authorities urged residents in affected areas to stay indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary, emphasizing that this storm could have long-term, catastrophic consequences if public safety guidelines are not followed.
