Deadly Winter Storm Sweeps Across US, Leaving 10 Dead – Tips To Stay Safe!

A severe winter storm has caused major damage in the US, including deadly floods, tornadoes, and extreme cold. The storm, fuelled by a polar vortex, has already killed 10 people, including nine in Kentucky. Authorities are warning people to stay safe as the storm moves west, bringing dangerous conditions. The latest wave of extreme cold weather, due to a polar vortex, has claimed at least 10 lives, including nine in Kentucky. Authorities are urging residents to take extreme caution as the storm pushes westward, bringing life-threatening conditions.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned of "life-threatening cold" across the northern Plains and Rockies, with some areas expected to experience wind chills as low as -60 degrees F. In northeastern Montana, temperatures could plunge to -45 degrees F, making it one of the coldest polar vortex events of the season.

Kentucky Devastated by Flash FloodsKentucky has been hit especially hard by the storm, with flooding causing widespread devastation. Governor Andy Beshear confirmed nine deaths, including a mother and her 7-year-old child, who were tragically swept away by rising waters. Emergency crews have rescued over 1,000 stranded people, and more evacuations are underway.

"So folks, stay off the roads right now and stay alive," Beshear urged, explaining that most fatalities occurred when cars became trapped in floodwaters. Kentucky and Tennessee saw up to six inches of rainfall, leading to swollen rivers and ongoing flooding. Mudslides in Virginia and submerged roads in Tennessee have further complicated rescue efforts.

Tornadoes and Freezing Conditions Across the South

Alabama was hit by an EF-1 tornado, which tore through Hale County, causing damage to mobile homes, uprooting trees, and downing power lines. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.

In Tennessee, a levee breach in Obion County has forced evacuations in the town of Rives, home to about 300 residents. Rising floodwaters, combined with power outages and freezing temperatures, have made conditions life-threatening.

In Atlanta, a person lost their life when a large tree crashed into a house, highlighting the dangers of high winds and saturated ground.

Extreme Cold and Snow in the MidwestNorth Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota are now under an extreme cold warning, with wind chills dropping to a brutal -50 degrees F. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor exposure, as frostbite can occur within minutes under these conditions.

Meanwhile, Michigan has recorded over 100 vehicle crashes, including 114 accidents in the Detroit area alone. Treacherous road conditions have left emergency services stretched thin, with authorities urging people to avoid travel unless necessary.

Colorado Faces Deadly Roads and Avalanche Threats

Colorado has seen a surge in fatal accidents, with eight deaths reported since Valentine's Day. Authorities have not confirmed whether weather conditions directly contributed to these crashes, but icy roads and poor visibility have made driving extremely hazardous.

Avalanche warnings are now in effect for parts of the Rocky Mountains, from Colorado to Washington state. Utah is facing the highest level of avalanche risk, and experts warn that even experienced skiers and hikers should avoid backcountry areas.

Tips to Stay Safe During Severe Winter Weather

With extreme weather conditions affecting much of the country, it’s crucial to take precautions. Here’s how you can stay safe:

1. Avoid Traveling in Hazardous Conditions- Stay off flooded roads: Never drive through standing water—it only takes six inches to lose control of your vehicle, and 12 inches can sweep a car away.

- Drive cautiously on icy roads: If you must travel, reduce speed, leave extra stopping distance, and keep emergency supplies in your car.

2. Protect Yourself from Extreme Cold

- Layer up: Wear thermal clothing, gloves, and insulated boots to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.

- Limit outdoor exposure: In temperatures below -30 degrees F, frostbite can occur in as little as 10 minutes.

- Keep emergency supplies: If you lose power, have blankets, flashlights, and enough food and water to last at least 72 hours.

3. Prepare Your Home for Winter Storms

- Keep a backup heat source like a generator or wood-burning stove.

- Stock up on food, water, and medications in case of extended power outages.

4. Watch Out for Flooding Risks- Move to higher ground if you live in a flood-prone area.

- Avoid walking through floodwaters—just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.

5. Be Avalanche Aware

- Stay on marked trails and avoid steep slopes.

- Carry avalanche safety gear, including a beacon, probe, and shovel.

- Check avalanche forecasts before heading into mountainous areas.

This winter storm is one of the most severe the US has seen this season, bringing deadly flooding, extreme cold, and dangerous travel conditions.

Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.