A massive winter storm has claimed at least seven lives across multiple states while leaving more than 800,000 households without power and canceling over 11,000 flights nationwide.

Storm Devastation Spans Coast to Coast

The dangerous weather system stretched from Texas to New England, prompting emergency declarations in nearly half of all states. Louisiana health officials confirmed two men died from hypothermia, while additional weather-related fatalities occurred in Texas, Tennessee, and Kansas. A woman found covered in snow in Kansas likely succumbed to hypothermia, according to local officials.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul described the conditions as an “arctic siege,” bringing the coldest temperatures and highest snowfall in years. Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser declared the capital was experiencing its biggest snowstorm in a decade. The Senate canceled Monday evening’s votes due to the severe conditions.

Ice Creates Major Safety Hazards

Meteorologists identified ice accumulation as the storm’s most dangerous element. Freezing rain created hazardous conditions capable of downing power lines and making roads impassable. Virginia and Kentucky authorities responded to hundreds of vehicle crashes on icy roadways. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear noted his state received more ice than originally predicted, creating worse conditions than anticipated.

Unusual Cold Hits Southern States Hard

The polar vortex drove temperatures 15-20 degrees below seasonal averages in typically warmer states like Texas, Louisiana, and Tennessee. These regions face particular challenges as residents and infrastructure are less prepared for extreme winter conditions. National Weather Service meteorologist Allison Santorelli warned that snow and ice would melt very slowly, hampering recovery efforts for days. The storm affects approximately 180 million Americans, representing more than half the nation’s population.