A powerful storm system swept across the central United States this week, causing destruction and chaos. Extreme weather conditions impacted millions of Americans, from blizzards in the Midwest to tornadoes and wildfires in the South. At least 42 lost their lives over the weekend as tornadoes, dust storms and wildfires swept across eight states. The storm, the latest in a string of unusually active weather patterns since February, brought blizzard conditions to parts of the Great Plains and the Midwest while creating fire weather risks in neighboring states. More than 72 million people were under advisories or warnings, highlighting the storm’s far-reaching impact, which had wind gusts exceeding 45 mph.
Blizzard Conditions From the Midwest
The storm brought heavy snowfall across a band stretching from southwestern Kansas to central Wisconsin. Snowfall was between 2 inches and a foot, with strong winds creating whiteout conditions. In Nebraska, near-zero visibility resulted in closed roads on major highways such as I-80 and I-29. In Kansas, more than 250 miles of Interstate 70 in the region were temporarily closed because of dangerous conditions. More than 140,000 residents were without power in Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee and Indiana.
Tornadoes and Severe Thunderstorms
Severe thunderstorms brought risks of hail, strong winds, and tornadoes to parts of Illinois and Indiana. Tornado watches were in effect as strong storms targeted central Illinois, while damage from strong winds was expected in Indiana. The National Weather Service warned of the continued risks in the Tennessee Valley as the storm system moved eastward.
Wildfire Risks in the South
In areas not affected by snow, strong winds and dry conditions produced a high risk of wildfires. States like Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri faced elevated fire threats due to abundant dry vegetation. Oklahoma saw renewed wildfire risks following an outbreak last week that destroyed more than 400 homes and claimed four lives.
Fires Sweep Through Texas and Arkansas
In Texas, the Forest Service responded to several wildfires burning tens of square miles. A fire near Borger in the Panhandle forced evacuations and threatened more than 1,000 homes before being largely contained. In Arkansas, firefighters fought flames that scorched homes in Little Rock and prompted temporary road closures due to smoke.
Power Outages and Damage to Infrastructure
A combination of heavy snow and strong winds caused significant damage to infrastructure in the South and Midwest. Utility poles snapped under the strain, leaving thousands without power. Abandoned vehicles and jackknifed trucks contributed to traffic mayhem on roadways that had already been closed because of perilous conditions.
Weather Whiplash: From Springlike Warmth to Winter Storms
The storm caused drastic temperature changes across affected areas. Some regions in the Midwest were feeling springlike warmth on Tuesday, with temperatures above 70°F. By Wednesday, those same regions were plunged into winter, with snowstorms and icy winds.
Fire Weather Warnings Extend Westward
Earlier in the week, massive dust storms led to highway closures in New Mexico. On Thursday, forecasters warned of a return of critical fire weather conditions as dry air lingered over the region.
Eastern U.S. Braces for Impact
On Thursday, the storm system is forecast to move east, pushing a cold front toward the Eastern Seaboard. Heavy snow is expected at higher elevations in New England as low-pressure systems continue to form and track along its path.
A Deadly Toll
At least 42 people across eight states have died due to tornadoes, wildfires, and dust storms over the weekend. Hundreds of homes and businesses were destroyed or severely damaged, and communities were struggling to recover from its devastating effects.
The Active Weather Pattern Continues
Meteorologists attribute this extreme weather to residual cold air in the upper atmosphere colliding with warm southern air during spring’s transitional period. This is the third major storm system in recent weeks — another sign of what experts say has been an unusually active weather pattern since February.
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