A rare and powerful winter storm has brought the Southern United States to a standstill, blanketing cities like Houston and New Orleans in a thick layer of snow and ice. The storm, which stretched from Texas to Florida, has caused widespread disruptions, including school and business closures, hazardous travel conditions, and tragically, at least nine fatalities.
States of emergency have been declared in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi as the region grapples with the unprecedented snowfall. Roads typically bustling with traffic were eerily quiet, replaced by scenes of snow-covered beaches and residents marveling at the unfamiliar winter wonderland.
READ: Life-Threatening Cold Weather To Impact Millions Of Americans
The storm dumped record-breaking snow in several areas. New Orleans, which rarely sees snow, received 5 inches, the most since at least 1948. Parts of Louisiana recorded up to 10.5 inches, nearing the state’s all-time record. Even Pensacola, Florida, experienced snow, marking the first time since 2014 that the city has seen measurable accumulation.
The storm intensified along the Gulf Coast, prompting the National Weather Service to issue its first-ever blizzard warning for the region. Southwestern Louisiana and southeastern Texas experienced blizzard conditions with high winds and reduced visibility.
The storm caused significant disruptions to daily life, with schools and businesses closed across the affected region. Over 2,000 flights were canceled, and travelers experienced widespread delays.
READ: AccuWeather: Historic Winter Storm Hammers Gulf Coast With Snow, Sleet, And Bitter Cold
Tragically, at least nine people have lost their lives due to the storm, including five fatalities in a crash near Batesville, Texas.
Despite the challenges, many residents embraced the rare opportunity to experience snow in the South. Houston, which resembled a “ghost town” early Tuesday, saw people venturing out later in the day to enjoy the unusual sight. For some, it was their first time ever seeing snow, creating a memorable experience they won’t soon forget.
As the storm moves eastward, the focus shifts to recovery efforts. The region is expected to face lingering travel disruptions and challenges in the coming days as it digs out from the historic snowfall. Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel as the cleanup continues.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox