Powerful winter storm hits East Coast, leaving trail of destruction


High wind and flood warnings were issued for more than 50 million people stretching from eastern Ohio to the Northeast.

Water rises in a residential area after a storm in Piermont, New York, US, January 10, 2024. – Reuters

A powerful winter storm is wreaking havoc on the East Coast of the United States, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

From flooding and power outages to grounded flights and emergency evacuations, the region is dealing with the consequences of a relentless attack from Mother Nature.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued high wind and flood warnings for more than 50 million people stretching from eastern Ohio to the Northeast. New England coastal towns, including Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, are facing severe flooding, with streets submerged, homes evacuated and businesses dealing with rising waters. Authorities have declared a state of emergency, urging residents to seek higher ground.

Major cities including New York, Philadelphia and Boston are on high alert as potentially damaging gusts exceeding 50 miles per hour threaten to down trees and power lines.

The impact is evident: 300,000 homes and businesses from North Carolina to Maine were plunged into darkness, amplifying the chaos caused by the storm. Flight operations are severely disrupted, with more than 1,200 flights delayed or canceled, including a significant number in and out of Chicago.

Tragically, the storm has claimed lives in its wake, with at least three deaths reported in Alabama, North Carolina and Georgia. Strong winds and tornadoes have hit the south, causing devastation and leaving communities in shock. Additionally, two motorists were killed in Wisconsin and Michigan, where heavy snowfall has created dangerous driving conditions.

As the east coast deals with the fallout, emergency services are stretched to the limit. Residents are urged to use caution, follow evacuation orders and stay up to date on the latest weather advisories.

The impact of this powerful winter storm serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable force of nature, underscoring the need for resilience and preparedness in the face of such formidable weather events.

The East Coast remains on high alert as the storm continues its relentless march, leaving communities assessing and recovering from the extensive damage it left in its wake.

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