Storm in US: At least 61 dead, according to new report

Two new deaths were recorded in connection with the storm that chilled much of the United States around Christmas, bringing the toll from this historic blizzard to at least 61 deaths, authorities announced Thursday.

Both deaths occurred in Erie County, New York, where the city of Buffalo is located. At least 39 people have died there and the number is set to rise further, county official Mark Poloncarz said at a news conference.

Of those, four were found in cars, 11 in homes and 17 outside, he said.

With temperatures warming, authorities feared the rapid melting of snow could cause flooding.

“Fortunately, it appears that the flooding will be minimal. There is a good possibility of flooding, but it appears that it will not be severe,” Poloncarz said.

Finally, power has been restored to everyone in the county, he added.