Coast-to-Coast Winter Storm Unleashes Widespread Power Outages, Travel Disruptions in US

Americans braced for blizzard-like conditions and heavy snow this week due to a devastating winter storm that caused widespread travel disruptions and power outages.

With only days before March, weather forecasts recorded challenging weather conditions this month.

• During the first week of February, Associated Press (AP) reported that ice storms emerged in the South, causing power outages and extreme cold in parts of Texas.
• Meanwhile, CNN reported that tornado outbreaks occurred in Northeastern Louisiana and New Jersey.
• Reuters reported the developing winter storms in the Northeast, Midwest and Southern California.

Widespread power outages and travel delays

Power outages and travel disruptions are common occurrences during severe weather events in the United States this month.

While parts of the United States recorded early spring-like temperatures, weather agencies monitored the active coast-to-coast winter storm.

According to AccuWeather's latest forecast, flights were canceled, and many motorists became stranded after a powerful winter storm emerged in the country.

AccuWeather said that Portland, Oregon recorded the heaviest snowfall this week due to the rounds of heavy snow.

Homeowners and motorists in Oregon experienced the unexpected load of snow that caused motorists to leave their cars on main roads.

Videos on Twitter revealed that about 70 vehicles became abandoned as snow continued to fall on Highway 26 near the Ridge Tunnel.

Meanwhile, the weather reports noted that Southwest experienced rotating power outages and road hazards due to the winter storms.

(Photo : by John Normile/Getty Images)
December 27, 2022 in Buffalo, New York. Coast-to-Coast Winter Storm Unleashes Widespread Power Outages, Travel Disruptions in US 

The report said severe weather caused travel delays and road closures in Arizona and parts of Colorado, including Highway 318.

Also Read: Isolated Tornadoes, Destructive Winds Possible in Parts of South This Week, Forecast Warns

Meanwhile, poweroutage.us said that about 900,000 people had no power in parts of the Midwest, including Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana.

The freezing rain and cold conditions increased homeowners' concerns about possible frozen winter pipes and cold-related health risks.

The American Red Cross explained the importance of staying warm during severe winter events. Wearing layered winter clothes is essential to avoid the dangerous effect of hypothermia and frostbite.

What to do after the winter storms

In the previous reports, forecasts advised that there is still a possibility of developing winter storms before or during the early weeks of the spring season.

After this week's winter snow, it is best that homeowners should check their homes for possible damage and repairs.

Heavy snow can damage roofing systems. In addition, homeowners should also repair damaged pipes after being frozen.

On the other hand, cars can also become damaged after severe winter storms. Car owners should check their vehicles for damages and needed car repairs.

As emphasized in previous reports, homeowners should ensure that their cars and homes have winter emergency kits, especially during widespread outages and travel delays.

Preparing for winter storms would help avoid injuries and casualties, especially since extreme colds could pose a health risk.

Related Article: Heaviest Snowfall Unloads in Portland, Oregon; Motorists Stranded Due to Massive Snow

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