Severe winter weather conditions in the United States have claimed the lives of at least 82 individuals across 13 states in recent weeks. The number of fatalities increased over the weekend as Tennessee and Mississippi reported additional weather-related deaths. As a result, transportation departments in several states are advising travelers to delay their commutes or avoid driving on Monday due to freezing rain which could lead to icy road conditions in the South and Plains regions.
Meteorologists are warning that Arctic air will continue to be present in the upper Midwest and Central Plains on Monday morning, with temperatures expected to remain near or below freezing in cities such as Oklahoma City, Little Rock, and Kansas City. This is particularly important as moist air is expected to move in with the next storm system, potentially leading to icy conditions. During the morning commute, parts of Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma City may experience slick roads due to freezing rain. These conditions could persist throughout the day.
Moisture will gradually extend northwards, resulting in a mix of snow and rain in Chicago. Moreover, heavy rain is forecasted along the Gulf Coast as the moisture continues to move inland. Ice accumulations are a concern, with many areas potentially experiencing up to a quarter of an inch of ice. A specific region above Little Rock could see up to half an inch of ice, increasing the risk of power line damage and hazardous road conditions.
Additionally, there is a flood threat anticipated in eastern Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama over the next few days. Rainfall totals of four inches or more are expected, which may cause flash flooding. Warmer air is driving these extreme weather conditions, resulting in temperatures that are 5 to 10 degrees above average at the beginning of the week. By the end of the week, temperatures may surge to be 10 to 20 degrees above average, and some areas such as Charlotte, Atlanta, and Washington D.C. could even reach the seventies.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom is also experiencing severe weather conditions. High wind alerts have been issued, with gusts of up to 100 mph anticipated due to storm Isha. London's Heathrow Airport witnessed some shaky landings as planes were tilted from side to side during touchdown. One British Airways flight was forced to make a second landing attempt after only one wheel made contact with the ground. As a result of the high winds, over 100 flights were canceled and more than 300 others faced delays at Heathrow on Sunday.
The weather extremes in both the United States and the UK are causing significant disruptions and potential danger. Authorities continue to monitor and warn the public about the hazards associated with these severe weather conditions.
