Millions of Americans are struggling to recover after a massive US snowstorm brought dangerous cold, heavy snowfall, and widespread disruption across large parts of the country. The sprawling winter system has claimed at least 23 lives, knocked out power to hundreds of thousands, and left transportation networks severely paralysed.
According to US officials, a life-threatening Arctic air mass continues to grip the nation, slowing recovery efforts from New Mexico to Maine. The National Weather Service warned that temperatures across the northern United States are expected to remain below freezing until February 1, increasing the risk of hypothermia, frostbite, and further infrastructure damage.
The storm dumped a dangerous mix of snow, freezing rain, sleet, and strong winds. In the northeastern states, snowfall totals were extreme, with parts of Connecticut recording more than 22 inches of snow, while Boston saw over 16 inches. Across the country, nearly half of all US states reported at least one foot of snow, with New Mexico’s Bonito Lake receiving the highest accumulation at 31 inches.
Officials confirmed that the storm-related deaths were caused by traffic accidents, hypothermia, and incidents involving snowplows, sledding, and all-terrain vehicles. In New York City, several people were found dead during the cold snap, with investigations ongoing to determine whether all fatalities were storm-related.
Power outages remain a major concern. As of Monday evening, more than 550,000 customers were still without electricity, particularly in southern states such as Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana, which are less prepared for extreme winter weather. Emergency warming shelters have been opened across affected regions.
The storm was caused by a distorted polar vortex, which allowed Arctic air to surge southward. Meteorologists say the unusually dry and fluffy snow made clearing roads difficult, while strong winds reduced visibility and worsened travel conditions.
Approximately 190 million people remain under some form of extreme cold alert, with officials urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain vigilant as frigid temperatures persist.
