Americans are bracing for yet another harsh winter onslaught just days after the weekend’s deadly storm wreaked havoc across the country.
Winter Storm Fern left at least 25 people dead and brought chaos to roads and airports, and meteorologists are warning that the chill is far from over.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecast dangerously low temperatures across the eastern half of the US, with the potential for another major snowstorm as frigid Arctic air continues to sweep south.
Wind chills could plunge as low as -50°F in some areas, with bone-chilling conditions expected to last into early February.
Rising Death Toll From Winter Storm Fern
The aftermath of Winter Storm Fern has been devastating.
Authorities have confirmed at least 25 fatalities across 11 states.
In New York City, eight people were found dead outdoors between Saturday and Monday, though investigations are ongoing.
Tragic incidents also included a 28-year-old teacher in Emporia, Kansas, found dead in the snow after leaving a bar without her coat or phone.
In Norwood, Massachusetts, and Dayton, Ohio, snowplows accidentally struck pedestrians, leading to further deaths.
Sledding accidents claimed two teenagers in Arkansas and Texas, while Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Mississippi, and New Jersey all reported multiple storm-related fatalities.
Airports and Flights in Chaos
Travelers are still facing major disruptions as ice and snow continue to paralyze airports nationwide.
By Monday afternoon, over 4,800 flights had been canceled and more than 5,100 delayed.
The FAA confirmed that major hubs including Philadelphia, New York, Dallas, Washington, DC, and Boston are experiencing significant ground delays due to treacherous conditions.
Airlines are scrambling to manage the backlog, and officials are urging passengers to check for updates before heading to airports.
Another Winter Storm Looms
Forecasters warn that the nightmare isn’t over.
The NWS has highlighted the increasing risk of a second significant winter storm hitting the eastern US this weekend.
A high-altitude disturbance is expected to move down from Canada on Thursday, deepening into a powerful surface low-pressure system by Sunday.
WSVN Meteorologist Dylan Federico tweeted, “The cold coming this weekend is the real deal!
The EURO model shows some of the coldest conditions I’ve ever seen, with below-zero wind chills reaching the Gulf Coast by Saturday morning.”
Extreme Cold Warnings Across 20+ States
More than 20 states are under “extreme cold” warnings, as temperatures plunge to levels that could be life-threatening.
From Texas to New York, morning wind chills are expected to dip into the single digits or teens, with exposed skin at risk of frostbite within minutes.
Even southern states like the Florida Panhandle and southern Georgia are expected to feel Arctic-level chills.
The Gulf region could experience wind chills as low as -10°F, putting residents at serious risk of hypothermia if precautions aren’t taken.
National Guard Steps In
Over 5,300 National Guard personnel from 15 states have been deployed to assist with storm response, helping clear roads, aid stranded drivers, and support emergency services.
Their presence has been critical in managing the widespread disruption caused by the storm.
Snow-Related Mishaps Continue
Long Island alone reported over 140 vehicle crashes during the storm.
Suffolk County documented around 80 incidents in a single day, while Nassau County recorded 60 crashes in less than 24 hours.
Amid all the chaos, a lighter moment emerged in New York City when Mayor Zohran Mamdani jokingly invited students frustrated by a remote learning day to throw snowballs at him—a reminder that even during a deadly storm, communities are finding ways to laugh and connect.
Residents Urged to Stay Safe
Authorities are strongly advising residents to stay indoors whenever possible.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized that crews are working around the clock to clear roads, urging people to avoid unnecessary travel and dress warmly if they must go outside.
The NWS continues to warn that dangerous wind chills and below-normal temperatures will persist into early February, making it critical for everyone in affected areas to take precautions and stay safe during this extended cold spell.
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