Severe Winter Storm Sweeps Across Southern and Midwestern US
A fierce winter storm has unleashed severe weather conditions, including tornadoes and heavy snowfall, across the US, with significant impacts felt in the South and Midwest regions.
Alex Carter
- 2024-01-09
- Updated 07:55 PM ET
(NewsNibs) - The storm has prompted tornado warnings and resulted in strong thunderstorms and heavy snowfall across several states. The South has been particularly hard hit by tornadoes, with reports of roofs torn from homes and furniture strewn about. The National Weather Service confirmed several radar-confirmed tornadoes, and a wind gust reached a staggering 106 mph in Walton County, Florida. Panama City Beach saw damaged property, and local police have advised residents to remain indoors amid widespread damage, including downed power lines and trees. Bay County has reported extensive damage, although with no injuries or fatalities at the time of reporting.
Midwest Battles Heavy Snowfall and Stranded Travelers
The Midwest has been grappling with its own weather challenges, as significant snowfall exceeding six inches has stranded many on highways. Forecasts predicted heavy snow stretching from southeastern Colorado to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. With conditions worsening, up to 12 inches of snow is expected. Nebraska and Kansas have been particularly affected, with whiteout conditions forcing the closure of interstates 80 and 70 and leaving travelers stranded. Federal courts in Nebraska and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have taken preventative measures in response to the storm, with numerous school closures and city hall operations moving online in Missouri and Iowa.
Preparations and Response to Storm's Aftermath
In the wake of the severe weather, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis activated the Florida State Guard. Meanwhile, more than 140,000 customers lost power across Florida, Alabama, and Georgia, and school closures were widespread. Photos from the Walton County sheriff's department depicted scenes of destruction, while political campaigns, including Trump's, canceled events in Iowa due to the weather. The storm is expected to move east, bringing the potential for snow, rain, and strong winds to the Northeast by Tuesday night, raising concerns about flooding in New England. Blizzard warnings have also been issued for the Cascade and Olympic ranges in Washington and Oregon in anticipation of another incoming storm.
The storm system is expected to continue its eastward movement, posing challenges in the form of snowfall, strong winds, and possible flooding. Preparedness efforts are underway, with communities bracing for more severe weather. Motorists and residents in affected areas are urged to heed local advisories and remain vigilant.
