A powerful storm hit the Northeast, bringing rain, snow, and strong winds that led to major airport delays, white-out road conditions, and power outages for over half a million customers. The storm system, which had been moving across the U.S. since the weekend, has already caused several weather-related deaths, including two in Pennsylvania where trees fell on cars during Wednesday’s storms. As the system moves out of the northeast, 5 million people are under wind alerts in New England and 8 million are under winter alerts, with heavy snow expected in north-central New England and northeast New York.
The National Weather Service Prediction Center forecast an additional 12 inches of snowfall through Friday, with significant impacts from heavy snow and wind leading to perilous travel conditions, including whiteout conditions, snow-covered roads, tree damage, and power outages. Air travel has been heavily impacted, with over 1,200 delays and 300 cancellations reported, and road conditions have led to multiple crashes in states like New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Power outages are widespread, with over 500,000 customers without power nationally, including over 235,000 in Maine, 53,000 in West Virginia, and over 51,000 in New York.
In response to the storm, utility companies such as New York State Electric and Gas and National Grid have increased staffing, extended shifts, and pre-staged crews to address downed wires and broken poles. In Connecticut, a mother and her three kids narrowly escaped injury when a tree fell on their car, and Gov. Janet Mills of Maine directed all state offices to be closed on Thursday and urged residents to prepare for possible power outages. The stormy conditions have disrupted travel, caused crashes, downed power lines and trees, and left many without power across the affected areas.
The storm system has brought heavy snow, rain, and strong winds to the region, leading to dangerous travel conditions and widespread power outages. The impact of the storm has been felt in multiple states, with significant disruptions to air travel, road conditions, and power services. As the system moves out of the northeast, residents are advised to take precautions, stay safe, and be prepared for possible power outages. Utility companies are working to restore power and address storm damage, while state officials have activated emergency response centers and issued closures to ensure public safety. The storm serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and destructive force of nature, and the importance of being prepared and resilient in the face of severe weather conditions.
