Powerful storms tore through the central U.S. on Tuesday, leaving two dead in Mississippi and damaging buildings in Oklahoma.
Tornadoes ripped through Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma, while high winds disrupted Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans.
Storms Threaten the Eastern U.S.
On Wednesday, the severe weather continued eastward. A tornado watch was issued for parts of North and South Carolina, with warnings in Florida and South Carolina. Forecasters also warned of a Pacific storm set to bring heavy rain and mountain snow to California and the West through Friday.
Dangerous Travel Conditions in the Midwest
Blizzard conditions hit parts of southern Minnesota, creating hazardous travel. In Nebraska, officials shut down a 130-mile stretch of Interstate 80 due to low visibility. Strong winds and heavy snow slowed traffic across the Twin Cities, southern Minnesota, and western Wisconsin.
Widespread Power Outages and Flight Cancellations
The storms left hundreds of thousands without power. Over 111,000 customers in Texas, 54,000 in Tennessee, and 53,000 in Alabama were in the dark by Wednesday morning. Air travel also suffered, with nearly 500 flight cancellations nationwide, mainly affecting the East Coast.
More Extreme Weather Ahead
Forecasters warn that the storm system will continue impacting millions across the country. As communities recover, more severe weather could be on the way.
