26.01.2026 18:41
The United States faced the harshest face of winter. A widespread ice storm and historic snowfall, affecting a large geography from Texas to Massachusetts, paralyzed daily life across the country. Following warnings issued by the National Weather Service days in advance, the storm impacted more than 200 million people. Roads were closed, flights were canceled, and images reminiscent of a "mini apocalypse" were shared from all over the country.
The United States was affected by a snowstorm, heavy snowfall, and polar cold over the weekend. Twenty-six states, stretching from Texas to Massachusetts, were placed under storm warnings by the National Weather Service (NWS), and the warnings quickly became a reality. While life came to a standstill across the country, the U.S. press described the events as a "historic winter disaster."
MORE THAN 200 MILLION PEOPLE UNDER THREAT
According to the National Weather Service, a polar-origin cold wave spreading over approximately 2,000 miles (3,224 kilometers) affected a large part of the country. Authorities announced that more than 200 million people were under threat from extreme cold, icing, and heavy snowfall.
SAME SCENES FROM NEW YORK TO MISSISSIPPI
Similar images were shared from many states from New York to Mississippi during the storm. In New York, the Manhattan Bridge, Empire State Building, and the famous skyscrapers that have become symbols of the city were covered in snow, turning white.
Images of fallen trees, cars trapped under trees, and the helplessness of Americans during those moments were shared hundreds of times on social media.
In the images circulating on social media, despite officials' warnings to "stay indoors," citizens were seen struggling to walk on icy roads, vehicles skidding, and people being stranded in some areas.
TRANSPORTATION PARALYZED, HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS LEFT WITHOUT ELECTRICITY
Heavy snowfall and icing paralyzed transportation across the country. More than 10,000 flights were canceled, and many airports halted operations. Due to fallen trees and damaged power lines, more than 1 million people were left without electricity. Federal and state officials announced that the infrastructure was severely strained.
DEATH TOLL RISES TO 11
According to the latest information from officials, the number of fatalities due to the storm has risen to 11. It was reported that most of the deaths occurred due to traffic accidents, exposure to extreme cold, and accidents caused by icing. A state of emergency was declared in 20 states, and emergency response teams were put on alert.
NATURAL GAS PRICES RISING
As snow and ice piled up on roads and in residential areas, daily life became even more difficult, and the increased energy demand led to a rapid rise in natural gas prices. Experts state that the storm will negatively impact not only daily life but also many sectors, especially energy and transportation.
STAY HOME WARNING
Meteorology and emergency officials warned that the effects of the storm could continue in some areas in the coming days, urging citizens to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary and to adhere to safety precautions.