A severe winter storm across the US resulted in nearly 38 deaths in 14 states during last weekend, and the weather has brought freezing temperatures, snow, and ice to many areas of the country. Snow accumulation has created hazardous conditions on many roadways across the country for several days, with major power outages throughout the US affecting more than 550,000 residences and businesses today and bringing dangerous low temperatures in several areas.

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Power Outages and Infrastructure Strain

Besides the loss of lives, the storm caused significant power outages and infrastructure disruptions in most parts of the states. Snow and ice-covered roads made travel risky, causing delays in travel and emergency service responses, and residents suffered widespread power outages and endured the colder hours with very little heating, while utility workers battled freezing conditions to restore power.

In Tennessee, Nashville was severely affected by the storm’s ice, which was declared a historic ice event, and the city’s shelters experienced very high demand as strong outreach efforts brought people inside, filling them beyond their usual capacities and even causing overflows.

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Human Toll and Emergency Response

Officials report that storm-related deaths across the country resulted from various factors, including hypothermia, exposure, and physical strain from shoveling snow. In Bonham, Texas, a heartbreaking incident occurred where three young boys died after falling into an icy pond over the weekend. Other deaths included people who died from hypothermia while seeking shelter or doing normal things in the extreme cold.

Authorities stressed that helping the homeless population is a top priority, and cities like New York have delayed homeless counts to focus on immediate aid. Outreach teams are checking on many vulnerable people, especially those with health issues, to prevent more tragedies.

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Lingering Cold and Future Risks

Though the snow from the storm has essentially stopped, the bitter cold will likely persist across much of the central and eastern U.S. for a few more days. Winter alerts are still in place from the Midwest through New England, and weather experts say another winter storm could hit parts of the eastern U.S. later in the week, prolonging hazardous conditions.

Officials suggest people remain cautious, prepare for the prolonged cold, and check on neighbors, especially older people and those at risk. The deadly winter storm across the US showed how important it is to have emergency plans and strong communities when dealing with storms driven by climate change.

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