The unprecedented winter storm that struck the Gulf Coast and Southeast regions has led to at least 10 fatalities. The extreme weather caused hazardous road conditions, record-breaking snowfall, and dangerously low temperatures, resulting in multiple tragic incidents across several states. In Alabama, a man died from a house fire while using a stove for heating. Meanwhile, in Texas, five individuals perished in a collision on the Nueces River Bridge. Georgia and Texas reported deaths due to hypothermia and vehicle accidents. Additionally, the storm broke numerous snowfall records in cities like New Orleans and Milton, Florida. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions against cold-related health risks.
Tragic Losses Amid Extreme Weather Conditions
The severe winter storm brought devastating consequences, with at least 10 lives lost across multiple states. In Alabama, an unidentified 37-year-old man succumbed to a house fire after attempting to heat his home using a stove. The coroner suspects that medication may have played a role in the incident. Another victim, a woman, died when her vehicle crashed on icy roads in Ozark. These events highlight the dangers of using unconventional heating methods and driving in treacherous conditions during extreme weather.
Georgia and Texas also faced significant losses. A person with critical needs in Georgia died from hypothermia after venturing outside on a frigid evening. In Texas, five individuals tragically lost their lives in a multi-vehicle crash on the Nueces River Bridge. The Texas Department of Public Safety is investigating the incident, which involved a semi-truck and a passenger minivan. Austin officials reported two additional fatalities, emphasizing the widespread impact of the storm on human life. The Travis County Medical Examiner will determine the exact causes of death for these individuals.
Record-Breaking Snowfall and Travel Disruptions
The storm's intensity was marked by record-breaking snowfall across various locations. New Orleans recorded 10 inches of snow at Louis Armstrong International Airport, tying a 130-year-old record. Similarly, Milton, Florida, saw nearly 10 inches of snow, surpassing previous records. Jackson, Mississippi, and Ocean Springs residents reported around 9 inches of snow, potentially breaking the 2010 record. The extensive snowfall not only disrupted daily life but also posed challenges for emergency services and transportation infrastructure.
The storm's aftermath included thousands of canceled flights and stranded motorists. Authorities warned that Arctic air would persist in the Southeast until Thursday, with a slow return to normal temperatures expected by Friday. Record low temperatures and cold afternoon highs were forecast for Wednesday and Thursday. The National Weather Service urged residents to protect pets, livestock, and plumbing from freezing conditions. They also advised travelers to prepare cold weather survival kits and ensure vehicles are fully fueled to avoid being stranded in dangerous conditions. This comprehensive approach aims to mitigate further risks and safeguard communities affected by the storm.