Severe Weather Alerts
How is the latest winter storm affecting road conditions across the United States?
The latest winter storm is wreaking havoc on roads throughout the heartland of America, with numerous accidents being reported. Freezing rain has transformed roadways into dangerous ice rinks, creating treacherous driving conditions across multiple states. The storm has prompted emergency declarations as a blast of arctic air moves across the country. At least 20 states are under snow and ice alerts, with areas still recovering from recent flooding now facing additional challenges. As temperatures plummet, communities must contend with hazardous travel conditions and the threat of power outages.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)
ABC News
00:37 - 00:52
How is Kentucky dealing with the dual crisis of flooding and winter weather?
Kentucky is currently facing a devastating dual crisis - flash flooding that has already claimed at least 14 lives and submerged neighborhoods in icy waters, while also preparing for an incoming winter storm. Officials are prioritizing providing warm shelter for those affected by the flooding, working to ensure that everyone who needs a safe place to stay can find appropriate accommodation. The state is coordinating recovery efforts while simultaneously preparing for snow and ice alerts that are affecting over 20 states in the region. This compounds the challenges for communities already reeling from flood damage, as they now must also contend with dangerous icy road conditions throughout the Midwest.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)ABC News
01:34 - 01:49
How extensive is the winter storm affecting the United States?
The winter storm is affecting at least 20 states, stretching from Louisiana to southern Delaware as it moves eastward. The severe weather system has prompted snow and ice alerts across this extensive region, creating hazardous conditions throughout multiple states. Record cold temperatures are already being reported in many areas, compounding the dangers posed by the winter storm. The situation is serious enough that states like North Carolina have declared states of emergency to address the impacts of this significant winter weather event.
Watch clip answer (00:10m)ABC News
00:00 - 00:10
Why did North Carolina declare a state of emergency?
North Carolina officials declared a state of emergency in response to severe winter weather threatening the region. The declaration comes with specific concerns about two critical areas of public safety. Officials explicitly stated that their greatest concerns are potential power outages that could leave residents without heat during dangerously cold conditions, as well as hazardous road safety issues caused by winter precipitation. The emergency declaration allows the state to mobilize resources more effectively to address these threats as the winter storm approaches.
Watch clip answer (00:07m)ABC News
01:17 - 01:25
How is Kentucky dealing with the aftermath of flooding, and what challenges have emerged?
Kentucky is still struggling with the aftermath of deadly weekend flooding, with communities facing swollen waterways that remain visible. According to reporter Alex Perez, residents have faced 'a difficult few days' as they work to recover from the flood damage that affected many areas. Compounding the recovery efforts is a new challenge: snowfall across the region. This winter precipitation is creating additional problems for communities already dealing with flood recovery, essentially placing a double burden on residents and emergency services trying to address the ongoing situation.
Watch clip answer (00:21m)ABC News
00:12 - 00:34
What states are affected by the winter storm and what conditions are being reported?
At least 20 states from Louisiana to southern Delaware are under snow and ice alerts as a significant winter storm moves eastward. The severe weather system is bringing hazardous conditions across these regions, with officials warning about dangerous road situations due to ice and snow accumulation. Record cold temperatures are already being reported across the affected areas, compounding the challenges faced by residents and emergency services. The arctic blast is particularly concerning for Kentucky, which is still recovering from flooding, while North Carolina has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of power outages and transportation difficulties.
Watch clip answer (00:10m)
ABC News
00:00 - 00:10