A powerful winter storm has hit the Deep South of the United States, bringing heavy snow, icy roads, and freezing rain. The storm has caused school closures and forced governors to declare states of emergency in several states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Georgia, and more.
The extreme weather is making travel dangerous and has even led to flight cancellations across major airports.
States Affected by the Storm
The winter storm started in Texas and Oklahoma, dumping heavy snow and ice before moving eastward. Many southern states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, have experienced a mix of snow and sleet, which has made roads hazardous.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders activated the National Guard to help stranded motorists, while schools across the region closed for the day.
According to the National Weather Service, northern parts of Arkansas and Tennessee could see up to 9 inches of snow. Meanwhile, other southern states are facing sleet and freezing rain, which are expected to cause further travel disruptions.
Impact on Transportation and Flights
One of the biggest disruptions caused by the storm is the cancellation of hundreds of flights. Airports in Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Nashville have all experienced major delays.
Atlanta’s airport, the world’s busiest, had to ground flights when snow started falling early in the morning. This has affected both passengers and airlines, with Delta Air Lines, based in Atlanta, facing the brunt of the cancellations.
The storm’s impact has also caused major delays on the roads, especially in Georgia, where the state government declared a state of emergency. Drivers are urged to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary, as the icy conditions are making roads slippery and unsafe.
School Closures and Online Learning
The storm has led to widespread school closures. In metro Atlanta, more than a million students were given a snow day or instructed to learn from home. In northern Georgia, schools were closed as a precaution, especially after a disastrous snowstorm in 2014.
Other states, including Alabama, Tennessee, and South Carolina, also saw schools close due to the snow and ice, with many districts switching to online learning.
Efforts to Address the Cold Weather
As the storm moves east, areas like Memphis and the Carolinas are preparing for additional snow and ice. Tennessee has declared a state of emergency, and Memphis is opening warming centers for residents affected by the storm.
The Carolinas are experiencing their first winter storm in three years, with officials taking steps to treat highways and ensure public safety.
In Virginia, the city of Richmond is under a boil-water advisory after a power outage caused by the storm disrupted the local water system. Officials are distributing bottled water to residents while the issue is resolved.
Conclusion
This winter storm has brought significant disruptions to the Deep South, with schools closed, flights canceled, and dangerous travel conditions. State officials have declared emergencies in several areas, and the National Guard has been mobilized to assist with relief efforts.
The storm’s impact is expected to continue throughout the weekend, and people in the affected states are urged to stay safe and avoid unnecessary travel.
FAQs
1. What states are affected by the winter storm?
The winter storm has impacted Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.
2. Why were schools closed in these states?
Schools were closed due to heavy snow, ice, and hazardous road conditions. Many districts shifted to online learning for safety reasons.
3. What is a state of emergency?
A state of emergency allows governors to mobilize resources, like the National Guard, and take special actions to help people during dangerous situations like storms.
4. Why are flights being canceled?
Flights have been canceled due to snow, ice, and ground stops at major airports like Atlanta, which is the busiest airport in the world.
5. What can people do to stay safe during the storm?
People are advised to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary, stay indoors, and follow updates from local authorities.
