The polar vortex-induced storm has led to emergencies declared in seven states, cancellation of over 2,000 flights, and left hundreds of thousands without power as forecasters warn of continuing adverse conditions.
Winter Storm Blair Leaves Trail of Destruction Across the US
Winter Storm Blair Leaves Trail of Destruction Across the US
A severe winter storm has claimed at least five lives and disrupted life across multiple states in the US, resulting in widespread school closures and travel mayhem.
A severe winter storm dubbed Winter Storm Blair, stemming from a polar vortex, has brought frigid conditions and chaos across the United States, with at least five fatalities reported. The storm has triggered emergency declarations in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and Arkansas, leading to the cancellation of over 2,000 flights and reports of around 6,500 delays.
On Monday afternoon, more than a quarter of a million people were reported to be without electricity, as snow continued to blanket the East Coast. Major disruptions included school closures across the Washington DC area, as lawmakers convened. Meteorologists are forecasting these icy conditions will persist for weeks.
Washington DC recorded substantial snowfall, with around 5 to 9 inches (13-23 cm) falling and up to a foot reported in surrounding regions like Maryland and Virginia. Joyful gatherings emerged despite the severity of the storm; locals celebrated tradition with snowball fights in parks and embraced winter sports, as some, like former Olympic skier Clare Egan, reveled in unexpected skiing opportunities on the National Mall.
Dangerous road conditions plagued multiple states, especially in Missouri where 365 accidents were reported, resulting in injuries and fatalities. Kansas faced some of the worst impact, with tragic accidents leading to multiple deaths. In Virginia, emergency services reported 300 crashes within just hours of the storm beginning, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
Widespread issues in terms of infrastructure were noted, as snow left roads comparable to "skating rinks," troubling police and plowing efforts. Additionally, Poweroutage.us reported around 260,000 individuals suffered power outages across states like Missouri, Indiana, and Kentucky due to the extreme cold and snowfall.
As the nation grapples with these wintery conditions, officials continue to advise caution and restraint as communities recover and clean up from Winter Storm Blair's extensive impact.
