As the United States continues to grapple with the aftermath of a devastating winter storm, a second formidable system is poised to deliver another blow to the already beleaguered nation. This week, forecasters have projected that the Northeast will face additional rainfall, ranging from one to two inches, exacerbating the plight of rivers that are currently surging beyond their banks.
Tragically, the incoming storm has already claimed a life due to an avalanche at the Palisades Tahoe resort in Lake Tahoe, marking the first fatality of its kind this season. The storm’s trajectory, originating from the Pacific Northwest, is set to traverse the Plains on Thursday, prompting the National Weather Service to issue warnings for major cities including Omaha, Des Moines, Chicago, and Grand Rapids. These areas may witness up to a foot of snow, while the high regions of Arizona and New Mexico are also expected to experience significant snowfall.
The incredible evolution of the winter storm that barreled across the country.
From a blizzard in the Plains to tornadoes in the South to flooding in the Northeast – this system brought it all. pic.twitter.com/UEwjJ6gpIG
— CIRA (@CIRA_CSU) January 11, 2024
In the South, from Texas to the Carolinas, the weather system brings the threat of tornadoes, large hail, and destructive wind gusts, affecting states such as Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. As the storm intensifies and moves eastward, it will be fueled by atmospheric energy. Concurrently, a frigid air mass from Canada will plunge temperatures across the north and central United States, with places like Nebraska and North Dakota bracing for single-digit temperatures and highs around zero degrees.
The storm’s impact is not limited to snow and cold. Flooding remains a major concern for states like Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and parts of New England. By Saturday morning, the northern part of this region is expected to encounter sleet, raising fears of further power outages. The previous storm, which began Tuesday night and subsided by Wednesday, had already wreaked havoc, washing out roads, toppling trees, and severing power lines, with wind gusts reaching 95 mph.
🤔Second mega storm is set to wallop America this week https://t.co/ZSKzw7JOrf @MailOnline
— DeplorableRocky 3 (@Capemayrocky) January 11, 2024
In response to the impending storm, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency. The state has witnessed extensive flooding, with some areas receiving up to three inches of rain since Tuesday night. The situation is dire, with many streets and roads inundated and rivers rising rapidly.
The storm’s severity has prompted widespread concern, with thousands of Americans still without power from the previous storm being advised to prepare for this new onslaught.
The storm has been characterized as a ‘beast,’ indicative of its potential to cause extensive damage and disruption across the country.
As the nation braces for the impact of this second mega storm, it is a stark reminder of the unpredictable and often harsh nature of winter weather. Communities are urged to heed warnings, stay informed, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this challenging period.
