The icy grip of winter storm Blair: 10 dead, flights canceled, power outages

Power restoration and road clearing efforts could take days as Winter Storm Blair carves a deadly and icy path through parts of the United States.

At least 10 fatalities have been linked to the storm, which caused widespread power outages, grounded flights, and brought travel to a standstill across several states.

Blair’s Icy Grip: Fatalities and Flight Chaos

The storm, named Winter Storm Blair by The Weather Channel, has left more than 350,000 customers without power from Kansas to Virginia. The havoc extended to airports, where thousands of delays and cancellations disrupted travel plans. At Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, runways were closed as crews worked to prevent freezing, affecting over 700 flights.

Schools Shuttered Across the Region

As the storm moves east, public schools in areas like Alexandria, Arlington, and Loudoun County announced closures for safety concerns. In total, districts across Washington, Maryland, and Virginia are bracing for continued disruptions.

Record Snowfall and More Deaths Reported

Winter Storm Blair unleashed record snowfall in some regions. Washington D.C. saw its heaviest one-day snowfall since 2022, while parts of the Delmarva Peninsula reported accumulations of up to 12 inches. The storm has also been blamed for additional roadway fatalities, with recent deaths reported in Virginia and West Virginia.

Brace for What’s Next: Another Storm Looms

While Blair’s snow will taper off tonight, meteorologists are warning of another storm brewing near Texas. Expected to strike later this week, the system could bring more snow, ice, and travel disruptions across the South and East.

Staying Safe Amid the Cold: Avoid Carbon Monoxide Risks

With extended power outages, experts are urging caution to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Officials recommend never using portable generators or grills indoors, and ensuring carbon monoxide detectors are functional throughout your home.

The Snowball Fight Tradition Lives On

Amid the chaos, some Washingtonians found joy in Blair’s snowfall. The DC Snowball Fight Association, celebrating its 15th year, hosted another lively snowball fight, proving that even storms can spark fun traditions.

Power Outages Persist in Hard-Hit Areas

Despite some progress, hundreds of thousands remain without power. Virginia, Kentucky, and West Virginia are among the hardest-hit states, with Appalachian Power warning that some outages could last until midweek.

One Foot Club: Record Snow Totals Confirmed

Reports confirm over a foot of snow in parts of Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana, with northern Kansas leading with an astonishing 18 inches. The storm’s impact highlights its severity and the challenges ahead in recovery.

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of Winter Storm Blair, officials urge residents to stay informed, stay warm, and prepare for potential new weather threats on the horizon.