Schools and buildings across the Southern U.S., from Texas to Georgia, were closed on Thursday or preparing to shut down in anticipation of freezing rain and snow. This weather system, bringing plunging temperatures and winter storms, posed a threat to travel conditions. In Texas, over 1 million students had classes canceled due to the potential for icy and hazardous weather, with closures also affecting schools in Kansas City and Little Rock, Arkansas. Richmond, Virginia, was under a weather-related boil advisory. At the same time, rare January wildfires were ravaging the Los Angeles area, forcing residents to evacuate amidst flames, strong winds, and thick smoke.
The Dallas area braced for 2 to 4 inches of snow, with up to 5 inches expected further north near Oklahoma. Emergency crews were deployed in advance, and Governor Greg Abbott advised residents to avoid driving in dangerous weather conditions if possible. Concerns were raised about slick roads on Friday, as a large crowd was expected to head to AT&T Stadium in Arlington for a college football championship semifinal. A mix of sleet, snow, and freezing rain was forecasted from New Mexico to Alabama, with heavier amounts expected in parts of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas. The system was projected to move northeastward, bringing heavy snow and freezing rain to the Virginia and North Carolina coasts.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced the closure of some state offices, while Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens stated that city offices would also be closed with employees working remotely. In Tennessee, schools were expected to close on Friday, depending on local decisions. The extreme cold was attributed to the polar vortex, occasionally moving south into regions like the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Kansas saw nearly a year’s worth of snowfall in recent days, impacting farmers and ranchers significantly. In northern Florida, concerns were raised about the impact of the weather on fern crops cultivated for floral arrangements, with Valentine’s Day approaching.
A boil-water order remains in effect for Virginia’s capital, Richmond, as officials strive to address issues with the water reservoir system. The order, issued after a storm-induced power outage led to system malfunctions, is anticipated to persist until at least Friday, according to Mayor Danny Avula.
With a population exceeding 200,000, the city has taken measures to provide assistance to residents impacted by the water advisory. Bottled water is being distributed at 11 designated sites, and deliveries are being made to elderly individuals and others who may face challenges accessing the distribution points.
Governor Glenn Youngkin expressed concern for families in the city who are grappling with water scarcity, emphasizing the difficulties faced by households with infants in need of formula. The situation underscores the critical importance of restoring the water supply promptly and efficiently.
In addition to the water issue, severe winter storms have wreaked havoc across the United States, leading to widespread disruptions in travel. Numerous flights have been delayed or canceled, causing significant inconvenience for travelers. The treacherous weather conditions have also contributed to a surge in car accidents, resulting in tragic fatalities in several states including Virginia, Indiana, Kansas, and Kentucky.
Tragic incidents related to the extreme weather have been reported in various states over the past week. Fatal accidents have occurred in West Virginia, North Carolina, and Kansas, further underscoring the dangers posed by the ongoing severe weather conditions.
Contributions to this report were made by journalists across the country, including Heather Hollingsworth in Kansas City, Charlotte Kramon in Atlanta, Nadia Lathan in Austin, Texas, Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia, Andrew DeMillo in Little Rock, Arkansas, Kimberly Chandler in Montgomery, Alabama, Chris O’Meara in Tampa, Florida, John Raby in Cross Lanes, West Virginia, Dylan Lovan in Louisville, Kentucky, and Julie Walker in New York.
For more in-depth coverage of climate-related news, visit the AP website at http://www.apnews.com/climate-and-environment.
