State of Emergency Declared for 200 Million Americans as Historic Winter Storm Sweeps Across the Nation
A state of emergency has been declared for approximately 200 million people across more than thirty states in the United States, as a historic winter storm brings intense snow and ice to vast regions of the country. The severe wintry weather, driven by arctic air moving south from Canada, is prompting urgent preparations and warnings from officials.
Emergency Declarations and Preparations Underway
States including South Carolina, Texas, and North Carolina have already declared states of emergency in anticipation of the storm's impact. Governors are urging residents to take immediate precautions. In North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein advised people to stay home and off the roads this weekend unless absolutely necessary, to allow first responders to work safely and effectively. He emphasised the importance of having a plan in case of power outages.
Similarly, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has instructed residents to stock up on food, fill their petrol tanks, and prepare for potential power disruptions. These measures highlight the widespread concern over the storm's potential to cause significant infrastructure challenges.
Life-Threatening Cold and Travel Disruptions Expected
The National Weather Service has issued warnings about life-threatening cold air that will move slowly eastward, likely triggering widespread travel delays. Record low temperatures are forecast for states like Texas and Mississippi, with the wintry conditions potentially lasting until early next week. Airports in major hubs such as Dallas, Atlanta, Memphis, and Charlotte are already bracing for flight cancellations and delays, adding to the travel chaos.
In response, states that have declared emergencies are deploying National Guard troops to mobilise response efforts. This military support aims to assist with emergency services and ensure public safety during the extreme weather event.
Southern States at Particular Risk
Southern states, which are unaccustomed to such icy conditions, face heightened risks due to a lack of supplies and infrastructure to handle severe winter weather. Keith Avery, CEO of the Newberry Electric Cooperative in South Carolina, warned that even a small amount of ice could be catastrophic, stating: ‘If you get a half an inch of ice — or heaven forbid an inch of ice — that could be catastrophic.’
Ryan Maue, a former chief scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, expressed concern about how people will cope with the unprecedented cold, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Public Response and Safety Advice
As the storm approaches, grocery stores in many states are reporting shortages of basic items like bread, milk, and eggs as residents rush to stock up. TikToker Megan Monroe-Evans shared a video of empty shelves in an Alabama shop, noting the typical southern reaction to winter weather forecasts.
Forecasters are advising people in areas expecting sub-zero temperatures to stay indoors to avoid risks of hypothermia. For those who must venture outside, experts recommend wearing multiple layers of clothing and covering extremities to protect against the extreme cold.
This developing situation continues to unfold, with authorities closely monitoring the storm's progression and its impact on millions of Americans.
