A rare winter storm brings blizzard warnings to the Southern U.S., affecting travel and daily life across multiple states
New Orleans: A historic winter storm has rolled into the Deep South, and it’s causing quite a stir. This isn’t your typical weather for the region, which usually enjoys warm temps and sunshine.
For many folks down here, this is a once-in-a-lifetime event. The cold air from Canada has pushed down, mixing with moist air from the Gulf, creating the perfect storm—literally!
Unfortunately, cities in the South aren’t really set up for snow. They don’t have the snowplows or equipment to clear the roads, making driving super risky. Most cars here aren’t even equipped with winter tires.
Air travel is taking a hit too. Houston’s airports have shut down due to the heavy snowfall, and delays and cancellations are piling up.
Winter storm warnings stretch over 2,500 kilometers, affecting eight states from Texas to North Carolina, and even parts of Florida! It’s a big deal.
In fact, the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, Louisiana, issued its first-ever blizzard warning. That’s pretty wild for a place that usually doesn’t see this kind of weather.
Many of the areas getting hit by snow were also affected by hurricanes last year. Now, they’re bracing for 10 to 20 centimeters of snow, stretching from New Orleans to Tallahassee.
It’s been over 130 years since New Orleans saw a snowfall like this. The last time was back in 1895! So, you can imagine the excitement and concern among residents.
The NOAA even sent their Hurricane Hunters into the storm to gather data. They’re taking this seriously!
Snow has already started falling in Houston and Louisiana, and it’s moving east. New Orleans is expected to see snow by late morning.
By the afternoon, Georgia and northern Florida will also feel the impact. The snow should start easing up by late Tuesday evening, with better conditions expected by Wednesday.
However, parts of northern Florida and Georgia might have to deal with ice and freezing rain as the warm air clashes with the cold. Meanwhile, cities like Orlando and Miami will just see rain.
Stay safe out there, everyone! This storm is definitely one for the books.