Oklahoma City, Jan 25 (LaPresse) – Thousands of departing flights in the United States over the weekend were canceled due to a violent storm that hit much of the country, threatening to cause power outages for days and to block major roadways with dangerous ice. About 140 million people, or more than 40% of the U.S. population, were under a winter storm weather alert from New Mexico to New England. Forecasts from the National Weather Service reported widespread heavy snowfall and a swath of ice stretching from eastern Texas to North Carolina. At noon, an ice accumulation of 0.6 centimeters was reported in some areas of southeastern Oklahoma, eastern Texas and Louisiana. “What really makes this storm unique is that immediately afterward it will become very cold,” said Allison Santorelli, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. “Snow and ice will melt very slowly and will not disappear soon, and this will hinder any restoration efforts.” Governors of more than a dozen states sounded the alarm over the incoming severe weather, declaring states of emergency or urging residents to stay home. While in some southern states rescue crews began working to restore damaged power lines, officials in some eastern states issued warnings to residents. “We expect a storm unlike any seen in years,” New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill said Saturday, announcing restrictions on commercial vehicle traffic and a 35-mile-per-hour speed limit on highways. She added: “It’s a good weekend to stay home.”
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