Deadly Winter Storms Claim Nearly 90 Lives Across The United States.

By Caroline Ameh

In the aftermath of a relentless week of winter storms, the United States grapples with the devastating toll of nearly 90 weather-related deaths. The impact has been most severe in Tennessee and Oregon, with at least 25 and 16 fatalities, respectively, prompting Oregon to declare a state of emergency due to severe ice storms.

Widespread power outages persist, leaving tens of thousands without electricity in various regions. CBS, the BBC’s US partner, reports a total of 89 weather-related fatalities nationwide over the past week, highlighting the magnitude of the crisis.

While Tennessee and Oregon bear the brunt of the death toll, other states, including Illinois, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Washington, Kentucky, Wisconsin, New York, and New Jersey, report fatalities. Investigations are underway for incidents such as a five-car crash in Kentucky and four deaths in Illinois.

In a tragic event in Portland, Oregon, three individuals lost their lives when powerful winds caused a power line to fall onto their vehicle, resulting in electrocution. Remarkably, a baby in the vehicle survived the incident.

Seattle witnessed five deaths, primarily among the homeless, in just four days, according to the Associated Press. In Mississippi, hazardous road conditions prompt officials to advise against unnecessary travel, while colleges and universities delay students’ return from winter break.

In Jackson, Mississippi, officials investigate whether online rumors about potential storm-related water shortages led residents to store water in bathtubs, causing a temporary drop in water pressure and leaving faucets dry for thousands.

Though electricity restoration efforts make progress, tens of thousands remain without power, with significant outages in Oregon, North Carolina, California, and Kentucky. Icy conditions and chilling winds are expected to persist into the week.

Looking ahead, meteorologists warn of a thaw that could bring warm air and rain, raising concerns about flooding in the Midwest and northeastern US. The nation remains on high alert as it navigates the aftermath of this deadly winter onslaught.