Deadly Arctic Weather Hits Much of U.S., Subzero Temperatures to Ease
As freezing temperatures continue to grip much of the United States, subfreezing conditions have even made their way down to the southern states of Texas and Florida. However, relief is in sight as the numbing cold is expected to ease up in the coming days. While the weather conditions have been treacherous, with freezing rain, sleet, and high wind gusts making travel dangerous in some areas, the National Weather Service has stated that a warm-up is on the horizon.
The recent wave of subzero temperatures, which arrived on Friday, is expected to subside as there will be no additional influx of arctic air from Canada. This means that the mid-section of the country can look forward to a steady warm-up. For example, in Des Moines, Iowa, daily high temperatures are expected to remain above freezing starting Monday.
Despite the anticipation of warmer weather, many people are still feeling the effects of the bitter cold, especially those who are unaccustomed to such extreme conditions. In Memphis, Tennessee, residents are struggling with water issues after freezing temperatures caused water mains to break across the city. Some residents have been left with no water at all, while others have been advised to boil their water for safety reasons. The water problems have even forced businesses like the Four Way Grill, a popular soul food kitchen, to close temporarily. Owner Patrice Bates Thompson expressed her concern for the financial stability of her family as their business had come to a halt.
The situation in Memphis is dire, with numerous pipes breaking and water pressure dropping throughout the city. To address potential contamination issues, Memphis Light, Gas & Water has urged its 400,000 customers to boil water or use bottled supplies until repairs are completed. The utility company has deployed over 100 employees to identify and fix leaks, and residents have been encouraged to report any leaks they come across. Pamela Wells, a resident who has been without water since Thursday morning, shared her frustration at the lack of communication and assistance from the utility company.
To alleviate the water crisis, the Memphis City Council has set up seven bottled water distribution stations across the city, with additional stations operating at fire stations. The demand for water has been high, with hundreds of cars lining up to receive supplies. Shelby County Emergency Management Director Brenda Jones emphasized the severity of the situation, highlighting the number of people without water or experiencing low water pressure.
The state of Tennessee has been hit particularly hard by winter storms this month, recording 26 deaths. One tragic incident involved a 25-year-old man who was found dead in a mobile home in Lewisburg after a space heater overturned and turned off, leaving him exposed to freezing temperatures. The extreme cold has also caused ice to form on walls, adding to the dangerous conditions faced by residents.
While the East Coast battles freezing rain and icy conditions, the West Coast is also experiencing its fair share of challenges. The Columbia River Gorge is expected to see more freezing rain, with temperatures remaining near or below freezing. The National Weather Service has warned that trees and power lines already coated with ice could topple if they receive more freezing rain.
Thankfully, there is some good news on the horizon as the weather service predicts above-average temperatures across most of the country next week. This will bring much-needed relief to those affected by the recent cold snap. However, it’s worth noting that chunks of falling ice will still pose a hazard during the thawing process.
While many are eager for warmer weather, there are those who are finding joy in the winter wonderland. Michigan City resident Andrew Smith expressed his excitement about the snowfall, mentioning that it hadn’t snowed this much in a while. For him, it’s an opportunity to bond with his children and enjoy classic winter activities like building snowmen and having snowball fights.
As the country eagerly awaits the end of this deadly Arctic weather, it is important to stay safe and be prepared for any hazards that may arise during the thawing process.
