Additional Coverage:
A massive winter storm slammed the South on Tuesday, bringing record-breaking snowfall and dangerously low temperatures to a region unaccustomed to such conditions. A blizzard warning, a first for Louisiana, was issued due to heavy snow and strong winds. While the blizzard warning expired by midday, a winter storm warning remained in effect.
Millions across the South, from Texas to Virginia, were under winter storm warnings. Authorities in Houston are investigating two possible weather-related deaths.
In Lafayette, Louisiana, residents were urged to stay home as the city prepared for this unprecedented weather event. Officials noted their preparedness for hurricanes, but admitted a lack of snow removal equipment.
The storm dumped heavy snow and ice across the region, impacting areas that haven’t seen such conditions in decades. Parts of Louisiana saw up to 10 inches of snow, while Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama also reported significant accumulations.
The unusual, persistent cold is preventing the snow from melting, creating hazardous road conditions. Residents were advised to avoid travel and carry a winter survival kit if travel is necessary. Louisiana even received assistance from Arkansas, which sent snowplows to help clear roads.
Frigid temperatures, well below normal, gripped much of the nation. Southern California faced renewed fire concerns due to strong Santa Ana winds and dry conditions.
A meteorologist is working to confirm if New Orleans broke its 1895 snowfall record. Alabama declared a state of emergency, and the National Guard is on standby.
Montgomery County, Alabama, deemed all roads and bridges impassable. The Port of Houston closed its facilities.
Savannah, Georgia, is under a winter storm warning.
This storm is being called historic, with New Orleans potentially seeing its largest snowfall since 1895. Houston anticipates its biggest winter storm in over 60 years, and Jacksonville, Florida, may see its first measurable snow in 35 years.
One New Orleans resident, originally from upstate New York, compared the scene to her hometown. She described a quiet city with children enjoying the rare snowfall.
Mobile, Alabama, shattered its 144-year-old snowfall record. Pensacola, Florida, also broke its record, set in 1895.
School closures were widespread across the South. Tallahassee, Florida, canceled school, giving children a rare snow day.
One Louisiana family, including a meteorology student, expressed excitement about the unusual weather. They prepared by protecting their pipes and stocking up on food.
The storm caused significant flight cancellations across the Southeast, impacting major airports in Houston and New Orleans.
North Florida is bracing for a potentially historic winter storm, with concerns about freezing rain causing power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
Austin, Texas, experienced snow and freezing temperatures, prompting school and university closures. Residents expressed concern about dangerous road conditions.
Mississippi is also under a winter storm warning, with significant snowfall and single-digit temperatures expected. A state of emergency has been declared, and road closures are anticipated.
Southern Louisiana is experiencing a rare winter storm, with heavy snow and ice creating dangerous travel conditions. State offices were closed, and a state of emergency was declared.
A widespread area of the South is experiencing rare and hazardous winter weather conditions, impacting travel, schools, and daily life.