A unusual and severe winter storm continued to wreak havoc throughout the Gulf Coast states on Tuesday, creating significant disruption and risk.
New Orleans had record-breaking snowfall and hundreds of weather-related accidents due to the strong Arctic blast. At least five people died as a result of the severe weather conditions that occurred during the storm.
One person in Georgia, two people in Houston, and two people in Austin, Texas, were among the victims. The names of the deceased were not released by the authorities right away.
The hurricane had a wide-ranging influence, impacting areas from eastern Texas to the western Florida Panhandle.
The harsh weather caused a lot of people to suffer, but for some, it was a unique chance to see snow for the first time. In Louisiana, youngsters took to the streets to have fun with the unexpected sight, participating in sledding and snowball fights.
In a statement, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry recognized this brief moment of happiness, adding, “Kids have had an opportunity to see a part of nature here in Louisiana that we never get to see.”
Even while some people were excited, the storm remained to be a major threat. Authorities were on high alert since it was expected that the hazardous traffic conditions and life-threatening cold would continue until Wednesday.
Due to the dangerous weather, operations at a number of international airports were halted, and roadways around the area were either closed or had limited access.
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This resulted in a large number of flight cancellations and delays, as well as other broad disruptions. More than 5,200 flights that were scheduled to arrive in, depart from, or travel within the United States had been delayed or canceled by midday.
Passengers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia reported large lines and severe delays, with many people waiting for a long time to rebook or board their flights.
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As travelers rushed to adapt to the broad disruptions caused by the storm, the impact of the storm on transportation continued to increase, and the severe weather showed no indications of improving.