A rare winter storm swept through the U.S. Gulf Coast on Tuesday, bringing heavy snow, ice, and strong winds to a region unaccustomed to such weather, while much of the United States remained in a dangerous deep freeze. Crews near Houston were busy plowing highways as downtown streets lay deserted under a blanket of white during the morning rush hour. Few ventured out into the snow-covered city center, with some businesses closed and the Houston metro rail running empty. Schools in Houston were closed for two days as the city braced for around four inches (10 cm) of snowfall.
“I’ve lived in Texas my whole life and I’ve never seen this much snow,” said Ishan Bhaidani, 29, a fintech consulting company owner in Houston.
In New Orleans, snowfall was expected to reach as much as eight inches, potentially tying a record set in 1895. The city had not seen measurable snow since 2009. Mayor LaToya Cantrell urged residents to stay home and off the roads as the storm continued to move through the region.
The storm was forecast to move through Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida early in the week, with up to five inches of snow expected in Mobile, Alabama, a rare occurrence in the area. A snowstorm warning was in effect for 31 million people across the southern U.S. until Wednesday morning.
Hundreds of flights were delayed or canceled at regional airports, including Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Temperatures were expected to plummet well below freezing, prompting warnings about frostbite and water pipe protection. The storm, coupled with ice and strong winds, posed travel hazards and power outages across the South.
In southeastern Texas, around 30,000 homes and businesses were without power, while some Texas ports suspended operations due to the severe cold. Warming centers were opened in Atlanta and Montgomery, and government offices closed in anticipation of the storm. Many school districts canceled classes. In the eastern U.S., frigid temperatures were expected to persist due to an Arctic front moving through the region.
On a frigid Tuesday morning across the United States, temperatures plummeted to bone-chilling lows, sending shivers down the spines of residents in various cities. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the mercury dropped to -6 degrees Fahrenheit (-21 degrees Celsius) in Chicago, a frosty 5 degrees Fahrenheit in Cleveland, and a chilly 11 degrees Fahrenheit in New York City.
While these morning readings may have felt icy to many, the coldest spot in the nation was near Grand Lake, Colorado, where a jaw-dropping -39 degrees Fahrenheit (-39 degrees Celsius) was recorded. As the cold snap gripped the country, residents bundled up in layers, seeking refuge from the bitter cold.
The frigid temperatures prompted concerns about safety and well-being, urging individuals to take precautions to stay warm and protect themselves from the harsh winter conditions. The NWS issued advisories and warnings to alert the public about the extreme cold and its potential risks.
As the winter weather continued to challenge communities across the U.S., the resilience and adaptability of residents were put to the test. From the windy city of Chicago to the bustling streets of New York City, people braved the cold, showcasing their perseverance in the face of adversity.
In these challenging times, the importance of community support and solidarity became evident as neighbors checked on one another, offering assistance and warmth to those in need. The spirit of compassion and unity shone brightly amidst the frosty temperatures, reminding us of the strength found in coming together during difficult times.
As the day progressed, the sun cast a faint glow over the frozen landscape, illuminating a winter wonderland blanketed in snow. Despite the biting cold, the beauty of the season was on display, painting a picturesque scene that captivated onlookers and photographers alike.
Throughout the day, stories of resilience and hope emerged, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the human heart in the face of adversity. From acts of kindness to moments of shared laughter, communities found solace in coming together to weather the storm.
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the snowy terrain, a sense of peace descended upon the land. The day’s challenges were met with fortitude and grace, a testament to the unwavering spirit of those who call these frosty regions home.
In the midst of the winter chill, a warmth emanated from within, reminding us of the power of human connection and the resilience that lies at the core of our being. As the cold night settled in, a sense of solidarity enveloped the nation, binding us together in the face of nature’s icy grip.
As the night deepened and the stars glittered overhead, a sense of quiet strength permeated the air. In the stillness of the winter night, we found solace in the knowledge that we are not alone, that we are united in our shared experience of facing the cold head-on.
And so, as the night wore on and the world
