A major winter storm that originated in Texas has moved eastward, impacting the northern Gulf Coast and parts of the Southeastern United States. The storm brought heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain to areas including the Florida Panhandle, Georgia, and the eastern Carolinas.
In Jacksonville, Florida, snow, sleet, and accumulating ice are expected, leading to the closure of Jacksonville International Airport and the cancellation of classes in schools. Authorities are urging residents to stay home for safety.
Eastern North Carolina is facing near-blizzard conditions with drifting snow, and up to 8 inches of snowfall is predicted in the Outer Banks region. The cold weather is expected to persist, with below-freezing temperatures and dangerous wind chills.
The storm has caused three fatalities due to the extreme cold. The Deep South, including areas like New Orleans, experienced record-setting snowfall, with some places receiving up to 10 inches of snow.
In response to the storm, several states declared states of emergency, and flight operations were disrupted, with over 2,300 flights canceled. The storm also led to school closures and the suspension of flight operations at major airports.
In Mobile, Alabama, a one-day snowfall record was broken with 5.4 inches of snow. The storm also impacted Texas, where more than 20 snowplows were deployed in the Houston area.
Despite the unusual weather, residents made the most of the snow, engaging in activities like snowball fights, sledding, and skiing in urban areas. The storm also prompted unique responses, such as the mobilization of snowplows in Florida.
As the storm moves eastward, concerns remain in Southern California, where dry conditions and Santa Ana winds pose a threat. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure public safety.
