As a result of the storm that brought heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures to the country, a state of emergency has been declared in 24 states, according to information from the BBC.
Last Sunday, over 10,000 flights were canceled, and more than 930 flights faced delays due to poor weather conditions.
According to a website tracking power outages, over 1 million residents are without electricity, especially in southern states such as Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
Heavy snowfall is expected over vast areas — from the Ohio River Valley to the northeastern United States. In the southern part of the country, icing is causing power line breaks and falling trees.
Local residents, particularly from northern Texas, report that the streets have become very slippery.
According to CNN, at least seven people have died as a result of the abnormal cold snap.
Authorities in 24 states, including Arkansas, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, and South Carolina, explained that the declaration of a state of emergency is necessary to prepare for large-scale efforts to address the aftermath of the storm and recovery.
Forecasters predict that snowfall will continue on Sunday and into Monday night, after which a prolonged period of severe cold, ice rain, and strong winds is expected, creating additional challenges for emergency services.
The National Weather Service (NWS) warns that snow and sleet will continue into next week, and refreezing will make roads dangerous for travel.
It is expected that over 200 million Americans will face the consequences of the abnormal weather conditions.
The storm, according to the National Weather Service, will sweep through a significant part of the country, causing devastating effects.
Transportation authorities, including major city airports, warn of a potential collapse in the transportation system.
Store shelves across the country are rapidly being emptied, and many residents are preparing for the possibility of being isolated in their homes in the coming days.
According to forecasts from the NWS, regions expecting more than 30 cm of snow stretch from Colorado to West Virginia and Boston.
In some parts of northeastern New Jersey and southeastern New York, including New York City, between 25 and 36 cm of snow is expected. Heavy snowfall has also affected Memphis, Nashville, Washington, Baltimore, and Philadelphia.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams reported that by Monday morning, the heaviest precipitation will have ceased, although rain may continue throughout the day.
He also noted that residents can expect "intense cold" along with heavy snowfall.
"This storm will bring not only snow but also intense cold that will last throughout the next week," Adams added.
Over the weekend, the city mobilized thousands of sanitation workers, 700 salt-spreading trucks, and more than two thousand snowplows.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp ordered that state employees who live and work in northern counties and are not involved in storm recovery efforts work from home until Tuesday.
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger previously urged residents to prepare for the storm, which is already affecting large areas of the state.
"Use these last hours to prepare: check for blankets, warm clothing, and food supplies to weather the storm," Spanberger said. "Every Virginian should avoid travel until Monday morning."
U.S. President Donald Trump noted on his social media platform Truth Social: "We will monitor the situation and stay in touch with all states affected by this storm. Be careful and stay warm!"
Meanwhile, Canada is also experiencing low temperatures, and snowfall is expected in the eastern and Atlantic regions on Monday.
