Unprecedented Snowstorm Strikes US Gulf Coast, Leaving 10 Dead and Widespread Disruptions

Texas, The Gulf Observer: A powerful and unprecedented snowstorm has swept across the US Gulf Coast, impacting regions from Texas to Florida and resulting in at least 10 fatalities, widespread travel disruptions, and extreme weather conditions.
The record-breaking storm has caused significant damage, with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall impacting the southern states. As of Wednesday night, reports indicate seven deaths in Texas, two in Alabama, and one in Georgia, all attributed to car crashes and hypothermia related to the storm.
The severe weather has also disrupted air travel, with over 2,000 flight cancellations reported on Tuesday, followed by more than 1,800 cancellations on Wednesday. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport has grounded all departing flights for the day.
DeKalb County in Georgia declared a state of emergency on Wednesday due to the harsh conditions, urging residents to stay indoors. Over 100 cars have been stranded on local roadways, hindering emergency response efforts.
The storm has also led to record snowfall in many areas. Florida recorded its highest snow accumulation ever, with 9.8 inches recorded in Milton, northeast of Pensacola, and 8.9 inches in Pensacola itself. Texas, which experienced its first-ever blizzard warning, recorded 5.2 inches of snow in Beaumont, while Mobile, Alabama saw 7.5 inches of snow, an all-time record for the city. Baton Rouge in Louisiana reported 7.6 inches, and New Orleans recorded 8 inches, marking the most snowfall in the city since 1895.
The freezing temperatures have caused the snow to persist, with record cold alerts issued for approximately 11 million people across the affected states. With temperatures continuing to drop, more record lows are expected Thursday morning, further exacerbating the ongoing crisis.