US winter storm death toll rises to 34 as deep freeze and power outages grip states

2026-01-27 - 09:08

A relentless winter storm and a punishing cold front have resulted in the deaths of at least 34 people across the United States this week. The severe weather, which brought heavy snow and ice followed by record-breaking low temperatures, continues to cause widespread disruption, leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity. A nationwide crisis with a mounting toll The fatalities have been reported in at least 13 states, with New York reporting nine deaths and Tennessee four. Individual states have detailed specific causes, including hypothermia in Kansas and a pedestrian struck by a snowplow in Massachusetts. Officials in New York reported finding at least eight bodies over the weekend, according to the New York Times, as the dangerous conditions persisted. Extended freeze and widespread power outages Meteorologists warn the deep freeze gripping the central and eastern US may not relent for days, with some areas not expected to see temperatures rise above freezing until early February. This complicates recovery, as any snowmelt quickly refreezes. The cold is compounded by significant power outages, affecting nearly 539,000 customers nationwide. Hardest-hit states include Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas, where over 29,000 remain without power. Record lows from the Midwest to the South The polar vortex is driving temperatures to historic lows in southern and northeastern regions. Cities unaccustomed to such extremes, like San Antonio and Austin in Texas, faced temperatures around 20°F (-7°C). In the Midwest, Minneapolis saw temperatures plummet to -13°F (-25°C). Wind chills are making conditions feel even more severe for millions of Americans already grappling with the storm's aftermath.