Map shows where first-ever blizzard warning issued in parts of the US
A blizzard warning has been issued for the first time as a winter storm threatens to be the biggest in over 50 years to hit a region of the US.
The Gulf Coast is bracing for its first-ever blizzard, with the warning sent Tuesday covering southeastern Texas and southwestern Louisiana along the Interstate 10 corridor. Heavy snowfall and strong winds are forecast.
Some cities could experience their biggest snowstorm in more than a half century and eight states in the southeastern US could be impacted. The warning stretches 1,500 miles from Texas to Florida and up into North Carolina.
‘This is intense snowfall rates with gusting winds,’ said FOX Weather exclusive storm tracker Brandon Copic from Interstate 10 in Louisiana on Tuesday.
‘It is absolutely incredible right now. If you don’t have to be out, don’t be out.’
The system has already unleashed snow in Houston, forcing George Bush Intercontinental Airport to temporarily suspend flights and local transportation to halt. William P Hobby Airport recorded three inches of snow on Tuesday, the most since January 30, 1949. Schools canceled classes and hospitals stopped outpatient services.
‘Several fatalities’ were reported east of La Pryor early Tuesday, according to Uvalde County Constable Emmanuel Zamora.
‘First responders on scene indicating slippery roads while responding to accident,’ wrote Zamora on Facebook. ‘Medical helicopter could not respond to assist due to weather. Prayers for all involved.’
The unprecedented system stems from an Arctic front and storm packed with moisture. The Gulf Coast typically has mild winters and rarely any snow. Residents in the most impacted regions are advised to avoid travel.
This winter has been colder than usual for much of the northeastern US and the Midwest. Meanwhile, strong winds earlier this month fueled deadly wildfires across Los Angeles County that firefighters have nearly contained but are continuing to battle.
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
For more stories like this, check our news page.