Millions of residents across the Gulf Coast and Southeast are facing ongoing disruptions following a once-in-a-generation winter storm that blanketed the region with unprecedented snowfall and frigid temperatures.
Cities remain shut down as snow-covered roads and icy conditions persist, with AccuWeather estimating the total economic loss from the storm to be between $14 billion and $17 billion.
“Temperatures usually rebound quickly after a Southern winter storm, but this time, the cold air will linger for several days,” said AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter. “Communities with limited snow removal equipment may have to wait until the weekend for conditions to improve. The widespread disruptions have cost businesses billions in losses.”
READ: Historic Gulf Coast Winter Storm Causes Up To $17 Billion In Economic Loss
Major cities across the South, including Houston, New Orleans, and Mobile, Alabama, will see continued impacts, with nighttime and early morning freezes prolonging hazardous road conditions. Snow accumulations have reached historic levels, with Grand Coteau, Louisiana, recording 13.4 inches—the highest reported total so far. Florida also set a new state record with nearly 10 inches of snow in Milton, far surpassing its previous record.
AccuWeather experts report that major highways and airports remain affected, with significant supply chain disruptions. Utility crews are working to restore power to more than 140,000 customers across the Gulf Coast and Southeast. The storm has caused burst pipes in thousands of homes and businesses, exacerbating economic losses.
Despite the challenges, temperatures are forecast to gradually rise later this week, with Houston expected to climb into the 50s on Thursday and the 60s by the weekend. However, other Gulf Coast cities will experience a slower warming trend, extending the duration of icy conditions.
READ: Plows Incoming: Florida Gov. DeSantis Warns Parts Of The State Could See 6″ Of Snow
Meanwhile, as the South battles extreme cold, rain showers are forecasted for Southern California, bringing both relief and risk to wildfire-stricken areas.
AccuWeather predicts up to 1.5 inches of rain in the foothills and lower mountain areas, which could help combat persistent drought conditions but also pose the threat of mudslides and debris flows in burn scar zones.
“Any rainfall that can dampen the dry brush in the region will be welcomed,” said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Heather Zehr. “However, residents near burn scars must remain vigilant due to the heightened risk of mudslides.”
Santa Ana winds will continue to pose a wildfire threat through the end of the week, with gusts of 40-60 mph and a Local StormMax™ of 80 mph possible in some areas.
READ: 9 Dead As Historic Winter Storm Paralyzes Southern US From Texas To Florida
The January winter storm has shattered snowfall records across multiple states:
- Louisiana: 13.4 inches in Grand Coteau
- Alabama: 11 inches near Babbie
- Florida: 9.8 inches near Milton (new state record)
- Georgia: 9 inches near Cordele
AccuWeather reports that this storm is the most impactful winter event to hit the Gulf Coast since modern records began in 1948.
As cleanup efforts continue across the South, AccuWeather long-range forecasters expect rounds of cold air to persist through the end of January. However, a pattern change in early February could provide much-needed relief from Arctic air masses.
In California, residents are urged to stay alert for potential flooding and hazardous driving conditions as rain arrives in fire-prone areas. Emergency management officials are closely monitoring the situation and encouraging residents to prepare for potential evacuations if necessary.
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