A snowstorm hits South America, recording the lowest temperature since 1989
An unprecedented snowstorm swept through the southern United States, leaving widespread devastation and a death toll exceeding 100, in what experts described as the worst weather event in decades. This polar vortex struck states whose infrastructure and residents were unprepared to handle temperatures plummeting well below freezing, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Warnings of a devastating coastal cyclone
The U.S. National Weather Service reports that the weather situation is becoming increasingly complex as a coastal cyclone intensifies and deepens. Forecasts indicate that this low-pressure system will bring moderate to heavy snowfall, accompanied by strong winds that could reach blizzard conditions. Warnings are particularly in effect for North and South Carolina, as well as large parts of Georgia, eastern Tennessee, Kentucky, and southern Virginia.
Lowest temperatures since 1989
Climate reports indicate that a powerful surge of polar air associated with the coastal storm will bring record-breaking low temperatures to southern Florida. The agency confirmed that the region could experience its lowest temperatures since 1989, reminiscent of the historic cold snaps that struck the area in the last century. This sharp drop poses a real threat to residents, especially the homeless and the elderly, and will also have a devastating impact on crops in this normally warm state.
Infrastructure challenges in the American South
This storm's exceptional severity stems from the geography it strikes. Unlike the northern states, which are well-equipped to handle heavy snow, the southern states often lack adequate snow removal equipment or road salting, and homes there are not designed to withstand prolonged freezing temperatures. This disparity in preparedness has led to complete traffic paralysis and widespread power outages, further complicating rescue operations and access to those affected.
Expected impacts and ongoing risks
As the storm moved in, authorities warned that ice could blanket the Carolinas, bringing daily life to a near standstill. Emergency teams urged residents to stay indoors and stock up on essential supplies, as the effects of this polar air mass were expected to linger for several days, placing immense strain on power and water networks that could lead to their collapse in some counties.
