Several U.S. states and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., have declared a state of emergency as they prepare for one of the harshest winter storms in recent years, U.S. media reported on January 23.
Accompanied by heavy snowfall and icy winds, the storm is expected to stretch across a distance of about 3,000 kilometers, from New Mexico in the southwest to Maine in the northeast over the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
U.S. media report that airlines have already canceled hundreds of flights as a precautionary measure. Many schools have also canceled classes on Friday to prevent potential risks.
There are also concerns about major power outages, for example due to falling trees or damaged power lines.
Weather warnings or advisories have been issued for approximately 160 million people. U.S. authorities have urged residents to stay at home if possible and avoid driving.
In parts of Minnesota and North Dakota, temperatures could drop as low as minus 45 degrees Celsius, according to the U.S. weather service.
Across New York State, Governor Kathy Hochul warned that the cold could be “deadly.”
The U.S. capital, Washington, D.C., has also declared a state of emergency ahead of the expected snowstorm this weekend. The measure took effect immediately, said Mayor Muriel Bowser.
Snowfall in the city of around 700,000 residents is forecast to begin on Saturday evening and continue through Sunday, possibly into Monday. The U.S. National Guard has been requested to provide vehicles to support emergency services.
Bowser said the snowfall could be significant and unlike anything seen in a long time, adding that icy roads are likely. She urged residents to stay indoors and ensure they have alternative lighting in case of emergencies.
Reacting to the winter storm, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized climate experts.
“Can environmental activists explain to us: WHAT HAPPENED TO GLOBAL WARMING?” he wrote on Truth Social.
Global warming refers to the gradual rise in average temperatures over the long term. According to experts, climate change is also driving the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including storms and heavy precipitation.
