Winter storm leaves four dead and 890k without power as tornadoes and floods leave trail of destruction: Live

Martha McHardy and Katie Hawkinson
10 January 2024 at 10:23 pm

As the northeast braces for flooding rain and damaging winds through Wednesday, meteorologists forecast a second storm will blow through the eastern half of the US late this week.

The southeast should brace for a repeat of destructive winds and possible tornadoes, the National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center^[1] said Wednesday. Meanwhile, the midwest^[2] can expect even more snow over the weekend, while rain^[3] will continue to beat down on the northeast, according to the NWS.

As for Wednesday, flooding rain^[4] and damaging winds will hit Boston, Massachusetts overnight, while New York City residents should remain braced for potential flooding^[5] throughout the day.

Meanwhile, the south is recovering from the destruction of a devastating storm earlier this week.

Four people have died and 890,000 homes were left without power after Storm Finn ripped through the Atlantic Coast, from Florida to New York. The deaths were reported in North Carolina, Georgia and Alabama.

Fourteen tornadoes were reported across Florida, Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina on Tuesday, causing significant damage, blowing roofs off homes and prompting rescues in Florida’s panhandle, which was hit with 55 mph winds and hail.

Key points

• Repeat storm to hit US this weekend, bringing possible tornadoes to southeast

• SEE IT: Overnight tornado damages Jackson County, Florida

• Four dead as tornadoes and floods tear through East Coast

• Photos show homes and cars destroyed by tornado winds in the Florida Panhandle

• Storm Finn leaves 890,000 without power

New Hampshire beach town flooded after torrential rainfall

22:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Torrential rain transformed the streets of New Hampshire beach towns into rivers and flooded countless homes on Wednesday morning.

Homes in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire were evacuated after the flooding began overnight Tuesday into Wednesday, NBC Boston^[6] reports. Now, entire neighbourhoods are underwater and the streets are completely flooded.

An emergency warning was issued at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, today following extremely high seas and significant flooding.

Homes have been evacuated as floodwaters overtook streets. Ocean Boulevard is closed, and residents are advised to avoid the area. #NHwx pic.twitter.com/QU7XaSvrqG^[7][8]

— AccuWeather (@accuweather) January 10, 2024^[9]

Flooding will remain a concern for the region through Thursday. Residents will have a small reprieve before heavy rains are forecasted to pick up again Friday evening, the National Weather Service^[10] said.

Crews are restoring power to much of northeast

21:33 , Katie Hawkinson

The number of customers without power is falling, according to PowerOutage.us^[11], as crews repair power lines damaged by Tuesday’s storm.

As of Wednesday afternoon, just over 90,000 people in New York are without power, a marked improvement from overnight Tuesday into Wednesday after torrential rain and heavy winds blasted the northeast.

There may not be much reprieve, however. The National Weather Service^[12] forecasts another storm will hit the northeast late this week and weekend, bringing more rain and potentially dangerous winds.

Travel chaos likely to persist throughout the week

20:51 , Katie Hawkinson

With thousands of flights cancelled in the last five days and more extreme winter weather forecasted for this weekend, travel chaos is likely here to stay.

Nearly 3,000 within, into, or out of the United States were delayed by Wednesday afternoon, with more than 600 cancelled so far. Thousands more flights had similar fates as a winter storm blasted the northeast last weekend and Storm Finn brought tornadoes to the south earlier this week.

Southeast reeling from tornado damage just weeks after the most expensive year for climate-related disasters ends

20:20 , Katie Hawkinson

The US was hit with highest number yet of billion-dollar climate disasters in 2023. Now, just weeks after saying goodbye to the record-setting year, the southeast is starting off 2024 with widespread destruction from high winds and several suspected tornadoes.

The top disasters from last year included 17 storms, four major floods, two tropical cyclones^[13], two tornado events, a winter storm, a wildfire, and a combined drought/heatwave.

Louise Boyle has more on how climate-related disasters impacted the US last year:

US hit with highest ever number of billion-dollar climate disasters in 2023^[14]

Sub-zero temperatures forecasted next week across much of US

19:50 , Katie Hawkinson

More than a dozen states in the middle of the country can expect subzero temperatures as arctic air blows across North America early next week, the National Weather Service^[15] (NWS) said.

Meanwhile, several other states as far south as Texas will drop to lows of 20, according to the NWS.

These conditions will prove particularly dangerous to vulnerable groups, such as infants, the elderly, and unhoused people.

Arctic air will plunges into the US by early next week, and by Tuesday morning, lows may bottom out into the 20s as far south as south Texas and the Central Gulf Coast Monday night. These temperatures will be dangerous, particularly for those without adequate heating or shelter. pic.twitter.com/Ptzhc5Siub^[16]

— National Weather Service (@NWS) January 10, 2024^[17]

Winter storm triggers rare blizzard warnings in Pacific Northwest

19:15 , Katie Hawkinson

Winter Storm Gerri has triggered blizzard warnings in the Pacific Northwest’s Cascade and Olympic Mountains, a rare alert for the region that officials haven’t triggered for more than a decade, The Weather Channel^[18] reports.

Travel will be dangerous over the Cascade Mountains through Thursday, according to the National Weather Service^[19], as heavy snow blankets the mountain range.

SEE IT: Stunning satellite imagery shows Storm Finn blowing north

18:45 , Katie Hawkinson

The CIRA Lab at Colorado State University posted stunning satellite imagery showing Storm Finn’s path through the eastern US at sunrise Wednesday morning.

100,000 without power in New York on Wednesday afternoon

18:15 , Katie Hawkinson

More than 100,000 customers are still without power in New York as of Wednesday afternoon, following overnight torrential rain and high winds, according to PowerOutage.us^[20].

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said^[21] crews have already restored electricity to 200,000 homes and they expect to assist more customers over the coming days.

However, another storm is predicted to hit New York and the rest of the northeast in just two days, bringing more heavy rain. The National Weather Service^[22] predicts a 100 per cent chance of precipitation Friday evening into Saturday.

Repeat storm to hit southeast US this weekend, bringing possible tornadoes

17:46 , Katie Hawkinson

Meteorologists are forecasting a second storm to hit the eastern US this weekend.

While residents of the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes regions can expect a potential “bomb cyclone,” forecasters are predicting a repeat of winds up to 75 miles per hour and potential tornadoes for the southeast US, the Storm Prediction Center^[23] said.

This forecast comes on the heels of destructive tornadoes that below through the southern US earlier this week. At least four people died as a result of the hazardous weather in the region, and several communities in Florida are still reckoning with the physical destruction.

Panama City, Florida was rocked by a destructive tornado on Tuesday evening (Bay County Sheriff’s Office/AFP)

Partial dam break in Connecticut prompts evacuation

17:15 , Katie Hawkinson

A partial dam break on Connecticut’s Yantic River has caused “life threatening” flash floods and prompted the evacuation of a riverside town.

“Life threatening flash flooding is possible in areas downstream from the Fitchville Pond Dam along the Yantic River,” the National Weather Service (NWS)^[24] said.

Norwich city officials have announced^[25] a mandatory evacuation for all residents living near the river from the Bozrah town line to the area of Backus Hospital.

The partial break came after days of snow and rain hit the northeast, with one town in Connecticut seeing 17 inches as of Sunday, according to the NWS^[26].

New details emerge on ‘bomb cyclone’ set to hit Ohio Valley, Great Lakes region this weekend

16:45 , Katie Hawkinson

Last week, forecasters warned of a potential “bomb cyclone,” that would hit the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes region beginning Friday. Now, meteorologists have more details as the weekend approaches.

On Friday, the Ohio Valley will face widespread rain up to an inch before transitioning to snow in the evening, according to the National Weather Service^[27] (NWS) for Wilmington, Ohio. The low pressure system will also bring dangerous winds, the NWS forecasts, as a result of a “very tight pressure gradient.”

The storm will bring “widespread precipitation, wind and much colder temperatures for the upcoming weekend,” the NWS said.

This new storm means the region will have little time to recover from this week’s weather events. Cincinnati, Ohio set a precipitation record^[28] on Tuesday, reaching 1.61 inches and beating the previous high of 1.57 inches set in 1898. Dayton and Columbus^[29] also set precipitation records.

Meanwhile, winds^[30] up to 50 miles per hour hit the region Tuesday night into Wednesday morning.

New York, Chicago airports lead in cancellations as travel headaches persist

16:15 , Katie Hawkinson

Travel chaos persists for a fifth day as winter storms hit nearly every region of the US.

LaGuardia Airport, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, and Newark Liberty International are leading in flight delays and cancellations as of Wednesday morning, according to FlightAware^[31], continuing a trend from Tuesday as Storm Finn hits the northeast and midwest.

Meanwhile, Texas’ Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport appears to be making a recovery after hundreds of cancellations and delays on Monday as Storm Finn sent suspected tornadoes and dangerous winds throughout the Gulf Coast.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the airport has seen just over 100 flights delayed or cancelled, a hopeful sign compared to Monday when nearly 900 flights to or from the airport were delayed or cancelled.

Midwest will see snow throughout the week: NWS

15:45 , Katie Hawkinson

Several areas of the Midwest are likely to get a foot of snow through the end of the week.

Residents of southeastern Colorado up to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan could see 12 inches of snow this week, the Associated Press^[32] reports.

Iowa, where the first Republican caucuses will begin next week, will continue to see several inches through Friday, according to the National Weather Service^[33] (NWS). “Frigid temperatures” will also hit the state this week, with wind chills dropping as low as -35F (-37C) on Sunday and Monday, the NWS said.

Migrants return safely to emergency housing after storm-related evacuation

15:15 , Katie Hawkinson

Nearly 2,000 migrants evacuated from their emergency housing have safely returned as severe weather subsided in New York City early Wednesday morning, according to New York City Emergency Management^[34].

On Tuesday afternoon, New York City officials evacuated around 2,000 migrants from Floyd Bennett Field, due to concerns over high winds and coastal flooding. Officials relocated them to a nearby high school, where they stayed until 4:30 am local time.

Strong winds subsided at Floyd Bennet Field around 1 am local time.

Could extreme weather in Iowa impact the Republican caucuses?

14:45 , Martha Mchardy

The Iowa Republican caucus^[35] is set to take place in just five days — and as the state prepares, residents are facing dangerous winter storm conditions^[36] and several inches of snow throughout the state.

The caucus is a much-anticipated event considered the beginning of the presidential election season. The Iowa Republican caucuses will determine how many of the state’s 40 Republican National Convention delegates each candidate will get.

However, this year’s Iowa Republican caucus won’t be much of a nail-biter, as former president Donald Trump is the front-runner,^[37] according to several polls. Meanwhile, the other Republican candidates, like Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy, will likely be in a race for second place.

As the state anticipates the caucuses, a winter storm is blowing through, bringing snow, high winds and dangerous travel conditions. On Tuesday morning, the National Weather Service^[38] in Des Moines, Iowa, reported more than seven inches of snow in their region — and more is expected.

Katie Hawkinson reports:

Iowa buried in snow just days before the state’s Republican caucuses^[39]

More than half a million homes and businesses still without power along East Coast

14:15 , Martha Mchardy

More than half a million homes and businesses were still without power along the US East Coast from Florida to Maine on Wednesday morning due to a massive winter storm^[40], according to data from PowerOutage.us.

New York was the hardest hit state, with nearly 143,000 customers out, followed by Pennsylvania with about 105,000 outages, North Carolina with about 70,000 outages, and New Jersey with about 58,000 outages.

At the height of the outages, 890,000 homes and businesses were without power across the country on Tuesday evening.

60k homes without power in New Jersey as schools closed

13:47 , Martha Mchardy

Around 120,000 homes in New Jersey lost power during the storms, and about half of those remained without power early Wednesday morning.

Many schools have also been closed today in the state.

While that may seem like good news to some children, students in Paterson have been told they will have to go to school for an extra four days during winter break in February after losing four days of school to flooding in December.

Storm Finn leaves trail of destruction in Florida

13:11 , Martha Mchardy

Homes were toppled, roofs were ripped off, and power lines were knocked down as a result of strong winds in Florida on Tuesday night.

Dozens of counties in the state declared a state of emergency on Tuesday amid Storm Finn, a major winter storm^[41] pummeling the US.

A resident of Panama City, Florida, who lives across from a home that was toppled by the wind said it sounded like a “freight train hitting a brick wall”.

“That’s how loud it was,” he told CBS News.

The storms also left roadways impassable in Panama City, ripped roofs off of buildings and brought hail the size of baseballs.

Watch: Power flash caught on camera as storms slam Florida

12:20 , Martha Mchardy

Storms, blizzard conditions to continue into Wednesday, NWS says

12:00 , Martha Mchardy

Stormy and blizzard conditions will continue into Wednesday across the United States, the National Weather Service said.

Flash flood warnings are in place for central Virginia through southern New York and into Connecticut and Rhode Island, according to the Weather Service.

Meanwhile, in the Northwest, blizzard conditions will continue through Wednesday morning.

On the East Coast, the storm is expected to gradually improve later into Wednesday, but rain and strong wind will persist.

Tornado watches have been lifted in the southeast of the country.

The storm is expected to move toward the country’s center by Thursday and strengthen, probably bringing a swath of heavy snow to the Plains and Midwest by Friday and Saturday.

Nearly 2,000 migrants evacuated from NYC tent complex amid devastating storm

11:39 , Martha Mchardy

Nearly 2,000 migrants were evacuated from New York City tent complex on Tuesday amid a devastating storm that is ripping through the East Coast.

Heavy rain and winds of up to 79mph ripped through New York overnight, with residents warned not to travel.

The National Weather Service warned of possible major flooding in portions of Long Island with up to 9-foot (2.7-meter) seas through Wednesday morning and a chance of major and minor flooding along streams and rivers throughout the Tri-State area, even though rain was expected to tail off.

US vice president’s plane diverted because of storm

11:17 , Martha Mchardy

US Vice President Kamala Harris’s plane, Air Force Two, was diverted on its way back from Atlanta on Tuesday because of weather conditions, her office said.

“Tonight, en route from Atlanta, GA, Air Force 2 was diverted to Dulles International Airport from Joint Base Andrews due to inclement weather,” Harris’s spokesperson, Kirsten Allen, said in a statement.

The plane encountered “wind shear,” according to a source familiar with the incident. Wind shear is a change in wind speed or direction over a short distance, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

US Vice President Kamala Harris (REUTERS/Randall Hill)

Governor warns New Yorkers to avoid travel as heavy rain and strong winds hit state

10:48 , Martha Mchardy

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has warned New Yorkers to avoid travel as heavy rain and strong winds hit the state.

She said the severe weather conditions may cause power outages and flooding in many areas.

As of Wednesday morning, around 150,000 homes and businesses in New York are without power, according to monitoring website United States Power Outage Map.

Ms Hochul added that utility crews will be working to restore power as soon as safely possible.

The Governor said residents should avoid travel if possible and never walk or drive on flooded roads.

The National Weather Service in New York said wind gusts have reached up to 79mph in parts of the state.

Heavy rains & winds are expected to continue throughout the night, causing power outages & flooding in many areas.

⚠️ Avoid travel if possible & never walk or drive on flooded roads

⚠️ If you experience a power outage, report it to your utility & take steps to stay safe pic.twitter.com/DOwusffsNi^[42]

— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) January 10, 2024^[43]

Photos show homes and cars destroyed by tornado winds in the Florida Panhandle

10:41 , Martha Mchardy

A sprawling storm has hit the South with strong thunderstorms and tornado warnings that blew roofs off homes and tossed about furniture in the Florida Panhandle (AP)

Damage to houses in Panama City Beach, Florida after a storm (WECP-TV)

Storm damage around around Panama City Beach, Fla., in Bay County (AP)

Storm Finn leaves 890,000 without power

10:36 , Martha Mchardy

More than 890,000 people were left without power after a major winter storm ripped through the East Coast.^[44]

More than 890,000 people had lost power as a result of the storm as of Tuesday evening, mainly in the east, according to monitoring website United States Power Outage Map .

The highest outages right now are in North Carolina, where around 101,000 homes and businesses are without power.

The National Weather Service has warned that blizzards in the Midwest and Great Lakes region may cause power outages.

“This snow will cling to trees and power lines, which when combined with gusty winds potentially exceeding 55 mph, could result in power outages,” the NWS said.

Four dead as tornadoes and floods tear through East Coast

10:30 , Martha Mchardy

At least four deaths were attributed to Storm Finn, a major winter storm^[45] pummeling the US. The deaths were reported in North Carolina, Georgia and Alabama.

One person died and four were hospitalized when severe winds, possibly from a tornado, struck a mobile home park in North Carolina’s Catawba County, according to county communications director Amy McCauley.

In Georgia, a driver was killed while traveling on a highway after a tree fell on the vehicle on Tuesday morning.

Meanwhile, in Alabama, an 81-year-old woman was killed in Cottonwood when her mobile home repeatedly flipped during the storm, Houston County Commission Chairman Brandon Shoupe said.

Another death was reported in Alabama when a tree fell on a vehicle, Birmingham fire and rescue Capt. Orlando Reynolds said on Tuesday.

Could extreme weather in Iowa impact the Republican caucuses?

09:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The Iowa Republican caucus^[46] is set to take place in just six days — and as the state prepares, residents are facing dangerous winter storm conditions^[47] and several inches of snow throughout the state.

The caucus is a much-anticipated event considered the beginning of the presidential election season. The Iowa Republican caucuses will determine how many of the state’s 40 Republican National Convention delegates each candidate will get.

However, this year’s Iowa Republican caucus won’t be much of a nail-biter, as former president Donald Trump is the front-runner,^[48] according to several polls. Meanwhile, the other Republican candidates, like Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy, will likely be in a race for second place.

Iowa buried in snow just days before the state’s Republican caucuses^[49]

See pictures of damage from overnight tornado in Jackson County, Florida

07:00 , Katie Hawkinson

A tornado touched down in Jackson County, Florida overnight Monday into Tuesday, causing property damage and injuring seven. No fatalities have been reported, Public Information Coordinator Ramsey Romero told The Independent Tuesday afternoon.

A damaged sign in a parking lot and debris pictured in Jackson County, Florida on 9 January following a tornado (Courtesy of Ramsey Romero)

A damaged gas station and debris pictured in Jackson County, Florida on 9 January following a tornado (Courtesy of Ramsey Romero)

An uprooted tree and debris pictured in Jackson County, Florida on 9 January (Courtesy of Ramsey Romero)

ICYMI: Multiple deaths attributable to high winds from Storm Finn

05:00 , Katie Hawkinson

At least three deaths can be attributed to suspected tornadoes and high winds throughout the South on Monday and Tuesday.

One person died in North Carolina after a suspected tornado struck a mobile home park Claremont, North Carolina on Tuesday, the Associated Press^[50] reports. Two others were critically injured. In Cottonwood, Alabama, another woman died when a suspected tornado caused her mobile home to be ripped from its foundation, according to the AP.

Mobile homes are especially dangerous during tornadoes, according to a previous AP report. The rapid on-set that is characteristic of many tornadoes makes it very difficult for residents to safely find other shelter, however.

A third person died near Atlanta, Georgia after a tree struck his car in heavy rain, the AP reports. Officials across the country are telling residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.

ICYMI: New York City officials evacuate migrants from emergency housing amid flood risk

04:00 , Katie Hawkinson

New York City officials evacuated nearly 2,000 migrants from their emergency housing in Brooklyn’s Floyd Bennett Field on Tuesday afternoon, local outlets Spectrum News NY 1^[51] and the New York Daily News^[52] reported.

They are now housed at a nearby high school due to the field’s proximity to Jamaica Bay amid forecasts of coastal flooding and damaging winds for Tuesday night.

“The health and safety of migrants in our care is always a top priority, which is why we are currently overseeing the relocation of 1,900 guests from the humanitarian emergency response and relief center at Floyd Bennett Field,” a spokesperson from New York City Hall told Spectrum News NY 1.

ICYMI: Another massive winter storm will likely hit midwest later this week

03:00 , Katie Hawkinson

A second devastating winter storm could hit the upper midwest US late this week, meteorologists say.

The storm will travel from Oklahoma City to Detroit on Friday through Saturday. The storm may classify as a “bomb cyclone,” The Washington Post^[53] reported, due to extreme low pressure.

The storm is forecasted to bring snow and wind, as well as a surge of warm air and rain along the northern Gulf Coast.

More than 1,000 flights were cancelled Tuesday

02:00 , Katie Hawkinson

More than 1,000 flights within, into, or out of the US were cancelled on Tuesday amid winter storms in nearly every region of the US.

Meanwhile, more than 6,000 flights were delayed, according to FlightAware^[54].

Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and LaGuardia Airport were among the most impacted.

Tuesday marked the worst travel day since winter storms began hitting the US over the weekend. The chaos will likely persist into Wednesday as many regions will still face the threat of extreme weather.

Million in central, southern Florida under tornado watch until later this evening

01:04 , Katie Hawkinson

Several counties in central and southern Florida are under a tornado watch until Tuesday at 9 pm local time, the National Weather Service^[55] reports.

10 million people are impacted by the watch, along with 1,875 schools and 122 hospitals. Wind gusts of 70 miles per hour and quarter-sized hail are also possible.

Meanwhile, at least three deaths in the southern US are attributable to suspected tornadoes and high winds from Storm Finn, the Associated Press^[56] reports.

ICYMI: Florida’s Jackson County called in backup to assist with tornado wreckage clean-up

00:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The Jackson County, Florida Sheriff’s Office requested extra rescue equipment and manpower from Houston County, Alabama in the wake of an overnight tornado in the Marianna area, Public Information Coordinator Ramsey Romero told The Independent.

Ms Romero said there were at least seven people injured but no reports of fatalities as of late Tuesday morning.

Semi-truck flips over on bridge in Charleston, South Carolina amid severe winds

Tuesday 9 January 2024 22:58 , Katie Hawkinson

Meteorologist Shea Gibson says^[57] a trailer flipped over on Charleston’s Ravenel Bridge in 60-mile-per-hour winds. Traffic is significantly backed up as severe weather continues to impact the region.

A semi has flipped over atop the Ravenel Bridge north bound. All lanes are closed and winds are gusting into the 60’s still. Plenty of warning last few days about this! #chswx pic.twitter.com/JqtZI9um0S^[58][59]

— Shea Gibson (@SheaGibsonWx) January 9, 2024^[60]

It is unclear what caused the truck in Charleston to flip over. However, some states — like New York^[61] — are banning empty tractor-trailers amid severe weather to prevent similar accidents caused by high winds toppling the vehicles.

Heavy rain expected overnight in New York City

Tuesday 9 January 2024 22:30 , Katie Hawkinson

As heavy rain hits New York’s Orange County, the storm is expected to blow into New York City overnight, the National Weather Service^[62] said.

Some areas of New York City may also see coastal flooding. Strong winds^[63] are expected, with sustained winds up to 35 miles per hour and gusts up to 70 miles per hour, according to meteorologists.

The National Weather Service is forecasting strong winds and flash flooding for New York City residents the evening of 9 January (National Weather Service)

Multiple deaths attributable to high winds from Storm Finn

Tuesday 9 January 2024 21:55 , Katie Hawkinson

At least three deaths have been reported as suspected tornadoes and high winds hit the South.

One person died in North Carolina after a suspected tornado struck a mobile home park Claremont, North Carolina on Tuesday, theAssociated Press^[64] reports. Two others were critically injured. In Cottonwood, Alabama, another woman died when a suspected tornado caused her mobile home to be ripped from its foundation, according to the AP.

Mobile homes are especially dangerous during tornadoes, according to a previous AP report. The rapid on-set that is characteristic of many tornadoes makes it very difficult for residents to safely find other shelter, however.

A third person died near Atlanta, Georgia after a tree struck his car in heavy rain, the AP reports. Officials across the country are telling residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.

More than 100,000 people are without power in North Carolina

Tuesday 9 January 2024 21:30 , Katie Hawkinson

More than 100,000 customers in North Carolina have no power as the National Weather Service issues tornado warnings for several counties in the state, according to PowerOutage.us^[65].

Florida is a close second, with 80,000 people in a blackout. The National Weather Service^[66] issued a tornado watch for much of central and south Florida on Tuesday afternoon as the Florida panhandle reels from several hours of high winds and tornadoes.

At least 400,000 people on the east coast are without power

Tuesday 9 January 2024 21:00 , Katie Hawkinson

At least 400,000 energy customers along the East Coast — from Florida to New York — are without power as of Tuesday afternoon, according to PowerOutage.us^[67].

Those outages come as dangerous winds and torrential rain threaten the midwest and eastern seaboard through Wednesday.

At least 600,000 people in total are without power in the country as of Tuesday afternoon. The Gulf Coast is still feeling the impacts of Storm Finn blowing through Monday evening into Tuesday, while the Pacific Northwest is reeling from a series of winter storms and blizzards that hit the region early this week.

Number of flight cancellations hit highest since storm series began

Tuesday 9 January 2024 20:35 , Katie Hawkinson

The number of flights cancelled so far Tuesday surpassed the cancellations recorded during the weekend winter storm in the northeast or on Monday when Storm Finn first hit the US, according to FlightAware^[68].

At least 945 flights within, into, or out of the US have been cancelled as of Tuesday afternoon, with more than 5,000 delayed. Meanwhile, Saturday travellers saw more than 500 cancellations nationwide, while 838 were cancelled the following day.

Monday came in at 814 cancelled flights as well.

With tornadoes hitting the southeast, torrential rain slamming the northeast and winter storms blowing through the Pacific Northwest, travel chaos will likely continue through the day and into Wednesday.

Several counties in Georgia and Carolinas under tornado warnings

Tuesday 9 January 2024 20:04 , Katie Hawkinson

Several counties in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina are under a tornado warning as the National Weather Service^[69] reports multiple tornadoes detected by radar in the region.

Several of the warnings include the possibility of pea-sized hail as Storm Finn moves north along the Atlantic Coast.

Migrants relocated from relief center in New York City amid forecasts of flooding, damaging winds

Tuesday 9 January 2024 19:35 , Katie Hawkinson

New York City officials have evacuated nearly 2,000 migrants from their emergency housing in Brooklyn’s Floyd Bennett Field, local outlets Spectrum News NY 1^[70] and the New York Daily News^[71] report.

Officials evacuated them to a nearby high school due to the field’s proximity to Jamaica Bay amid forecasts of coastal flooding and damaging winds Tuesday evening.

“The health and safety of migrants in our care is always a top priority, which is why we are currently overseeing the relocation of 1,900 guests from the humanitarian emergency response and relief center at Floyd Bennett Field,” a spokesperson from New York City Hall told Spectrum News NY 1.

10 million in southern Florida also under tornado watch until Tuesday evening

Tuesday 9 January 2024 19:05 , Katie Hawkinson

Several counties in central and southern Florida are under a tornado watch until Tuesday at 9 pm local time, the National Weather Service^[72] reports.

10 million people are impacted by the watch, along with 1,875 schools and 122 hospitals. Wind gusts of 70 miles per hour and quarter-sized hail are also possible.

The watch comes as northern Florida endures an “intense” squall line^[73] moving through the region just hours after a series of tornadoes swept through the area overnight.

SEE IT: Overnight tornado damages Jackson County, Florida

Tuesday 9 January 2024 18:35 , Katie Hawkinson

A tornado struck near Marianna, Florida last night, injuring seven and causing property damage across Jackson County, Public Information Coordinator Ramsey Romero told The Independent.

An uprooted tree and debris pictured in Jackson County, Florida on 9 January following a tornado (Courtesy of Ramsey Romero)

A damaged gas station and debris pictured in Jackson County, Florida on 9 January following a tornado (Courtesy of Ramsey Romero)

A damaged sign in a parking lot and debris pictured in Jackson County, Florida on 9 January following a tornado (Courtesy of Ramsey Romero)

Tornadoes wreak havoc in Florida as Storm Finn continues to hit the southeast

Tuesday 9 January 2024 18:04 , Katie Hawkinson

Tornadoes and destructive winds are blowing through Florida after a dangerous evening on Monday.

Storm Finn initially threatened the Florida panhandle Monday night, moving eastward into Tuesday and expanding the possibility of tornadoes across northern Florida. Several tornadoes were reported, with one in Marianna, Florida injuring seven.

Northern Florida now faces an intense squall line moving across the region, bringing continuous threats of high winds. As Storm Finn moves north, the National Weather Service has also issued tornado watches to residents of southeast Georgia and the Carolinas.

The National Weather Service’s forecast for northern Florida 8 January – 9 January (National Weather Service)

Residents of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina facing tornado watches Tuesday afternoon

Tuesday 9 January 2024 17:39 , Katie Hawkinson

The National Weather Service^[74] (NWS) has issued tornado watches to northern Florida, southeast Georgia and much of South Carolina as Storm Finn moves northward.

There is a high likelihood of tornadoes and high wind in the region until 6 pm local time, the NWS said.

Iowa buried in snow as Storm Finn blows through midwest, northeast

Tuesday 9 January 2024 17:15 , Katie Hawkinson

Several inches of snow are falling across Iowa as every county^[75] in the state sits under either a winter storm warning or winter weather advisory.

The National Weather Service^[76] (NWS) for Des Moines has recorded more than 7 inches of snow in their region, with more still falling as of Tuesday morning. More than half that snow fell in just six hours, according to the NWS.

Meanwhile, the Des Moines airport has recorded more than 6 inches, with snow still falling.

Travel conditions are proving dangerous — the Des Moines Police warned^[77] residents to stay home unless it is absolutely necessary to travel.

Stuart Road (p-28) in Adair County!! Cars are pushing snow with front bumpers….. stay home if you can till road crews can clear the lanes! Only 1lane of traffic been plowed! pic.twitter.com/Bf4yTw31GU^[78]

— ISP-Trooper DeVault (@TrooperDeVault) January 9, 2024^[79]

Rescue crews assisting with tornado cleanup efforts

Tuesday 9 January 2024 16:29 , Katie Hawkinson

The Jackson County, Florida Sheriff’s Office has requested extra rescue equipment and manpower from Houston County, Alabama in the wake of a tornado in the Marianna area, Public Information Coordinator Ramsey Romero told The Independent.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office said there have been no reports of fatalities in the region as of late Tuesday morning but was unable to provide any information on the number of injuries at this time.

Florida officials report damage and continued need to seek shelter as squall line passes through region

Tuesday 9 January 2024 16:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The Bay County, Florida Sheriff Tommy Ford told residents to seek sturdy shelter and find a safe place inside their home as a squall line passes through the region.

He told residents the Sheriff’s Office has already received numerous damage reports as a result of the storm.

The Bay County Sheriff’s Office shared a photo of this home with roof damage sustained during Storm Finn (Bay County Sheriff’s Office)

Air travel chaos persists into Tuesday

Tuesday 9 January 2024 15:30 , Katie Hawkinson

A multi-day streak of cancellations and delays continues to impact air travel as winter storms blow through the midwest and northeast on Tuesday.

More than 2,000 flights within, into, or out of the US have been delayed as of Tuesday morning, with more than 600 cancelled, according to FlightAware^[80].

More than 15,000 flights within, into, or out of the US were delayed over the weekend, and more than 1,300 were cancelled.

Monday brought similar conditions, with 8,000 delays and 810 cancellations. Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport and Seattle-Tacoma Airport were among the most impacted as each region suffered from separate winter storms.

‘Intense squall’ to pass through Florida panhandle in wake of reported tornadoes

Tuesday 9 January 2024 15:14 , Katie Hawkinson

An “intense squall line” will pass through the Florida panhandle Tuesday as the region recovers from high winds and reported tornadoes overnight.

That squall line could bring even more tornadoes, potentially widespread destructive winds and localized flash flooding, according to the National Weather Service^[81] in Tallahassee, Florida.

Meanwhile, panhandle residents are still recovering from high winds and reported tornadoes across the region overnight.

Our field correspondent @bclemms is on the ground in the Florida panhandle where a tornado hit the I-10 corridor earlier this morning. Numerous campers are flipped with widespread damage in the area #FLwx pic.twitter.com/fLueJVYctN^[82][83][84]

— WeatherNation (@WeatherNation) January 9, 2024^[85]

Residents report tornadoes ripping through Florida panhandle overnight

Tuesday 9 January 2024 14:51 , Katie Hawkinson

Storm Finn brought tornadoes to the Florida panhandle Monday into Tuesday as residents report storm damage.

The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado in Walton County^[86] early Tuesday morning, as well as an earlier tornado near Fort Lauderdale^[87] on Sunday.

A suspected tornado also hit Panama City Beach^[88] overnight Monday into Tuesday, with one resident filming the debris caused by the storm.

Storm Finn continues to threaten Atlantic coast with dangerous winds, rain

Tuesday 9 January 2024 14:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Millions of people are under blizzard threat as Storm Finn blows through the midwest and northeast, the National Weather Service^[89] (NWS) forecasts.

Storm Finn will continue to wreak havoc into Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the NWS.

These warnings come after Storm Finn blew through the Gulf Coast on Monday, bringing travel chaos amid other winter storms impacting the country.

ICYMI: Cuyama Valley, California, under a hard freeze warning until later today

Tuesday 9 January 2024 13:02 , Katie Hawkinson

Cuyama Valley, California is under a hard freeze warning until Tuesday morning, the National Weather Service has said.

NWS issues a hard freeze warning when temperatures are expected to drop below 28°F for an extended period of time, killing most types of commercial crops and residential plants.

The warning will remain in effect until 10am PST, while a hard freeze watch will be in place until Tuesday morning.

The NWS has warned of damage to outdoor plumbing and severe damage to crops or sensitive vegetation, as well as harm to unprotected pets or livestock.

“Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold,” the NWS said in a statement. “To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing.“

ICYMI: Severe winds toppled tree in California, pinning young girl underneath

Tuesday 9 January 2024 12:00 , Katie Hawkinson

A young girl in California was injured after high winds toppled a large tree that pinned her to the ground, NBC Los Angeles^[90] reported.

The incident occurred on Sunday at Melrose Trading Post, a popular flea market in Los Angeles. A bystander helped her escape and she was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. It’s unclear how severe her injuries are, according to NBC Los Angeles.

The tree toppled amid high winds in Southern California that hit up to 50 miles per hour, CBS News reports^[91].

49 states under at least one weather alert on Monday

Tuesday 9 January 2024 11:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Almost every state was under at least one type of weather alert on Monday, the National Weather Service^[92] reports.

The only state without any alerts was North Dakota.

With a “ferocious” winter storm blasting the midwest, Storm Finn putting the Gulf Coast on tornado watch and blizzards dropping several inches of snow on the northeast, extreme weather has impacted the entire country over the past several days.

Another massive winter storm will likely hit midwest later this week

Tuesday 9 January 2024 09:00 , Katie Hawkinson

A second devastating winter storm could hit the upper midwest US late this week, meteorologists say.

The storm will travel from Oklahoma City to Detroit on Friday through Saturday. The storm may classify as a “bomb cyclone,” The Washington Post^[93] reported, due to extreme low pressure.

The storm is forecasted to bring snow and wind, as well as a surge of warm air and rain along the northern Gulf Coast.

SEE IT: Northeast recovers from first major winter storm of 2024

Tuesday 9 January 2024 07:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The first major winter storm of the new year blew through the mid-Atlantic and northeast US last week, bringing rain, snow and sleet to the region.

A man plows a snow-covered driveway on 7 January in Derry, New Hampshire (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

People walk through New York City amid wintry precipitation on 6 January (Getty Images)

Centennial AME Zion Church in Closter, New Jersey pictured on 6 January as a snow storm blew through the region (AFP via Getty Images)

Gulf Coast residents should keep phone volumes on tonight to hear emergency alerts: meteorologist

Tuesday 9 January 2024 05:02 , Katie Hawkinson

Residents of the Gulf Coast should prepare for nighttime tornadoes to sweep through the region, the National Weather Service (NWS) warns.

In the New Orleans, Louisiana region in particular, tornadoes are most likely to strike 7pm through 3am local time, NWS meteorologist Megan Williams told The Independent.

Residents should take safety measures to protect themselves, including seeking sturdy shelter and turning their phone volumes on to ensure they wake up for emergency weather alerts, Ms Williams said.

ICYMI: Midwest travel will be ‘extremely dangerous to impossible’ as storm hits: NWS

Tuesday 9 January 2024 04:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Thanks to a winter blizzard bringing a “ferocious” storm with whiteouts and high wind gusts, travel in the midwest region of the US will be “extremely dangerous to impossible,” the National Weather Service^[94] (NWS) warns.

Meteorologists advised those who must travel to bring a winter survival kit as wind chills are forecasted to bring subzero temperatures. Wind gusts are expected to reach 60-70 miles per hour, according to the NWS.

Travel will also become dangerous in the Gulf Coast region through Wednesday as Storm Finn brings flash flooding and heavy winds.

US has no time to recover from weekend travel chaos as winter storms continue to slam the country

Tuesday 9 January 2024 03:01 , Katie Hawkinson

US airports had no time to recover from this weekend’s travel chaos as storms continued to affect much of the US on Monday and into Tuesday, according to FlightAware^[95].

More than 15,000 flights within, into, or out of the US were delayed over the weekend, with more than 1,300 cancelled.

Monday brought similar conditions, with more than 4,000 delays within, into, or out of the US. Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport was one of the most impacted airports as the region was placed under a tornado watch until Monday evening.

‘Bomb cyclone’ may hit midwest this weekend

Tuesday 9 January 2024 02:00 , Katie Hawkinson

A second devastating winter storm could hit the upper midwest US late this week, meteorologists say.

The storm will travel from Oklahoma City to Detroit on Friday through Saturday. The storm may classify as a “bomb cyclone,” The Washington Post^[96] reported, due to extreme low pressure.

The storm is forecasted to bring snow and wind, as well as a surge of warm air and rain along the northern Gulf Coast.

ICYMI: Residents of Texas, Louisiana bracing for nighttime tornadoes

Tuesday 9 January 2024 01:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Residents of the Gulf Coast should prepare for tornadoes to sweep through the region tonight, the National Weather Service (NWS) warns.

In the New Orleans, Louisiana region in particular, tornadoes are most likely to strike 7pm through 3am local time, NWS meteorologist Megan Williams told The Independent on Monday afternoon.

Residents should take safety measures to protect themselves, including turning their phone volumes on to ensure they wake up for alerts and seeking sturdy shelter, Ms Williams said.

12 million people across northern Florida, Alabama and Carolinas under enhanced thunder storm warnings for tomorrow

Tuesday 9 January 2024 00:00 , Katie Hawkinson

More than 12 million people in north Florida, southeast Alabama, the Carolina Piedmont and the Carolina Coastal Plain are under enhanced thunderstorm warnings for Tuesday, the National Weather Service^[97] (NWS) forecasts.

These thunderstorms will also bring a risk for “very strong and damaging wind gusts and a few strong tornadoes,” as Storm Finn continues to wreak havoc into Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the (NWS).

Houston faces dangerous tornado threat and two-inch hail: meteorologist

Monday 8 January 2024 23:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Residents of Houston, Texas are facing a dangerous tornado threat and hail up to two inches in diameter, meteorologist Mike Bettes reports via The Weather Channel^[98].

75-mile-per-hour winds are also blasting through the region. Nearly 60,000 customers are without power in the state, as of late Monday afternoon, according to PowerOutage.us^[99].

Thunderstorms rolling into Houston bring risk of damaging hail, winds

Monday 8 January 2024 22:13 , Katie Hawkinson

A line of thunderstorms is blowing into the Houston area over the next several hours, the National Weather Service^[100] said.

The storms bring a risk of damaging hail and winds, as well as the possibility of isolated tornadoes. The region remains under a tornado watch until 9 pm local time.

As a result of the weather, Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport is experiencing hundreds of delays and cancellations.

Monday 8 January 2024 22:00 , Katie Hawkinson

The George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Texas is leading the nation in cancellations and delays, according to FlightAware^[101].

93 flights arriving at or departing from the airport have been cancelled, while more than 400 have been delayed.

Meanwhile, Houston, Texas is under a tornado watch until 9 pm local time, according to the National Weather Service^[102]. Forecasters are predicting hail and wind gusts up to 70 miles per hour.

The warning impacts nearly 9 million people.

More than 4,000 flights delayed as severe weather impacts 49 states

Monday 8 January 2024 21:15 , Katie Hawkinson

More than 4,000 flights within, into, or out of the US have been delayed, while more than 500 have been cancelled as of Monday afternoon, according to FlightAware^[103].

The number of cancellations has nearly doubled in four hours today. At noon on the East Coast, approximately 2,000 flights were delayed.

These delays will likely continue as nearly every state is under at least one weather alert, per the National Weather Service.

Tornado observed in West Livingston, Texas

Monday 8 January 2024 20:42 , Katie Hawkinson

More than 28,000 people in West Livingston, Texas are under a tornado warning as the National Weather Service^[104] reports an observed tornado and the possibility of pea-sized hail.

Nine schools and one hospital are in the impacted area.

Houston, eastern Louisiana under tornado watch until 9 pm local time

Monday 8 January 2024 20:32 , Katie Hawkinson

The National Weather Service^[105] (NWS) has issued a tornado watch until 9 pm local time from Houston, Texas to Franklin, Louisiana.

The warning affects nearly 9 million people, 2,295 schools and 212 hospitals, according to the NWS.

Residents should sleep with their phone volumes on to ensure an emergency alert wakes them up, meteorologist Megan Williams told The Independent.

A tornado watch from Houston, Texas to Franklin, Louisiana is impacting nearly 9 million people (National Weather Service)

Residents of Texas, Louisiana bracing for nighttime tornadoes

Monday 8 January 2024 20:04 , Katie Hawkinson

Residents of the Gulf Coast should prepare for nighttime tornadoes to sweep through the region, the National Weather Service (NWS) warns.

In the New Orleans, Louisiana region in particular, tornadoes are most likely to strike 7pm through 3am local time, NWS meteorologist Megan Williams told The Independent.

Residents should take safety measures to protect themselves, including turning their phone volumes on to ensure they wake up for alerts and seeking sturdy shelter, Ms Williams said.

Another massive winter storm predicted later this week

Monday 8 January 2024 19:24 , Katie Hawkinson

Yet another devastating winter storm is forecasted to hit the midwest US late this week, meteorologists say.

The storm will travel from Oklahoma City to Detroit on Friday through Saturday. The storm may classify as a “bomb cyclone,” The Washington Post^[106] reports, potentially setting low-pressure records.

The storm is forecasted to bring snow and wind, as well as a surge of warm air and rain along the northern Gulf Coast.

12 million people across northern Florida, Alabama and Carolinas under enhanced thunder storm warnings

Monday 8 January 2024 19:00 , Katie Hawkinson

More than 12 million people in north Florida, southeast Alabama, the Carolina Piedmont and the Carolina Coastal Plain are under enhanced thunderstorm warnings for Tuesday, the National Weather Service^[107] (NWS) forecasts.

These thunderstorms will also bring a risk for “very strong and damaging wind gusts and a few strong tornadoes,” as Storm Finn continues to wreak havoc into Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the (NWS).

Thousands in California, Texas without power

Monday 8 January 2024 18:40 , Katie Hawkinson

More than 10,000 customers in both California and Texas are without power as of Monday afternoon, PowerOutage.us^[108] reports.

These outages come as California recovers from high winds of up to 50 miles per hour on Sunday and southeastern Texas braces for Storm Finn.

The entire Gulf Coast is currently under a high wind warning as meteorologists forecast possible tornadoes in the region overnight.

Young girl injured by severe weather in California over the weekend

Monday 8 January 2024 18:20 , Katie Hawkinson

A young girl in California was injured after a large tree was toppled by high winds and pinned her to the ground, NBC Los Angeles^[109] reports.

The incident occurred on Sunday at Melrose Trading Post, a popular flea market in Los Angeles. A bystander helped her escape and she was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. It’s unclear how severe her injuries are, according to NBC Los Angeles.

The tree toppled amid high winds in Southern California that blew through the region at up to 50 miles per hour, CBS News reports^[110].

Travel will be ‘extremely dangerous to impossible’ in midwest as storm hits: NWS

Monday 8 January 2024 18:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Thanks to a winter blizzard bringing a “ferocious” storm with whiteouts and high wind gusts, travel in the midwest region of the US will be “extremely dangerous to impossible,” the National Weather Service^[111] (NWS) warns.

Meteorologists advised those who must travel to bring a winter survival kit as wind chills are forecasted to bring subzero temperatures. Wind gusts are expected to reach 60-70 miles per hour, according to the NWS.

Travel will also become dangerous in the Gulf Coast region through Wednesday as Storm Finn brings flash flooding and heavy winds.

US flight delays approach 2,500 as travel chaos continues

Monday 8 January 2024 17:37 , Katie Hawkinson

Extreme weather across the US has impacted travel since this weekend — and as the number of flight cancellations Monday morning approaches 2,500, that trend appears to be sticking around.

2,451 flights within, into, or out of the United States were delayed so far today, with cancelled flights approaching 500 as of Monday afternoon.

Meanwhile, travellers on Sunday say 7,682 delays within, into, or out of the United States. Saturday brought similar chaos, with nearly 8,000 delays.

49 states are under at least one type of weather alert: NWS

Monday 8 January 2024 17:18 , Katie Hawkinson

Almost every state is under a weather alert today, the National Weather Service^[112] reports.

As of Monday, the only state without any alerts is North Dakota.

With a “ferocious” winter storm blasting the midwest, Storm Finn putting the Gulf Coast on tornado watch and blizzards dropping several inches of snow on the northeast, extreme weather has hit nearly the entire country over the past several days.

Cancellations impacting flights to, from Seattle-Tacoma airport

Monday 8 January 2024 17:00 , Katie Hawkinson

Flight cancellations are hitting the Seattle-Tacoma airport hard today as extreme weather also impacts the Pacific Northwest.

83 flights arriving at or departing from the Seattle-Tacoma airport have been cancelled as of Monday morning, according to FlightAware^[113]. Currently, the Seattle region is under several warnings, including a high wind warning and winter weather warning, Fox13 Seattle reports^[114].

New Orleans warns residents to take safety precautions as Louisiana braces for Storm Finn

Monday 8 January 2024 16:44 , Katie Hawkinson

The New Orleans National Weather Service is warning residents to be “weather aware” overnight Monday into Tuesday as Storm Finn hits the region.

Forecasters expect heavy winds, hail and tornadoes to hit the region today and tomorrow. The New Orleans NWS warned residents to make sure their cell phones are not on silent tonight so weather alerts will wake them up. The NWS also advised that residents should brace for power outages by preparing flashlights.

➡️ Overall, be weather aware today. Have a reliable way to receive warnings should they be required later today and tonight that will WAKE YOU UP. Ensure your WEA (Wireless Emergency Alert) function on your phone is turned on, and check your NOAA Wx Radio. #lawx #mswx (7/7) pic.twitter.com/ElemmQ8GGc^{[115][116][117]}

— NWS New Orleans (@NWSNewOrleans) January 8, 2024^[118]

Power outages expected as much of southern US faces wind advisories

Monday 8 January 2024 16:19 , Katie Hawkinson

The National Weather Service has issued wind warnings from eastern New Mexico to the Atlantic coast.

With forecasters predicting winds of 50 miles per hour across the Gulf Coast and possible tornadoes, they say power outages are possible for much of the region, The New York Times^[119] reports.

The beige color — depicted across the southern US on this map provided by the National Weather Service — indicates counties under a wind advisory (National Weather Service)

Nine million people under enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms

Monday 8 January 2024 16:01 , Katie Hawkinson

More than nine million people are under an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms in the Gulf Coast region, the National Weather Service^[120] reports. That region includes Houston, New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

Meanwhile, more than 27 million people in the Gulf Coast region are under some form of thunderstorm warning, whether a marginal, slight, or enhanced warning.

The National Weather Service issued thunderstorm warnings to much of the Gulf Coast on Monday (National Weather Service)

As Storm Finn hits Gulf Coast, the midwest faces a major winter storm

Monday 8 January 2024 15:45 , Katie Hawkinson

While Florida prepares for tornadoes, midwest states are bracing for a powerful winter storm expected to bring strong winds, heavy snowfall and treacherous driving conditions.

Winter storm and blizzard warnings are in effect from northeastern New Mexico to eastern Wisconsin, according to the National Weather Service^[121]. The storm will bring heavy winter weather to much of Nebraska, Kansas and Iowa.

Arizona already felt the impacts of extreme winter weather yesterday, when dangerous road conditions and weather-related car accidents resulted in closures throughout Interstate 40, CNN^[122] reports.

Flight delays, cancellations on the rise as southeast US prepares to face a major storm

Monday 8 January 2024 15:20 , Katie Hawkinson

As the Gulf Coast braces for a major storm and possible tornadoes, airports across the US are reporting delays, marking another day of potential travel chaos in the country.

As of Monday morning, 1,092 flights within, into, or out of the US were delayed, while 426 were cancelled, according to the tracker FlightAware^[123]. On Sunday, more than 7,000 were delayed and more than 837 were cancelled.

As Storm Finn ramps up to bring rain, strong winds, snow and tornadoes to the southeast US, the northeast is also recovering from a major winter storm that hit over the weekend. That storm brought snow, sleet and freezing rain to much of the region, creating dangerous road conditions and putting nearly 20 million people under winter warnings.

Monday 8 January 2024 15:00 , Martha Mchardy

A winter storm hit the Northeast^[124] of the US on Sunday, 7 January, bringing heavy snow^[125], rain, and strong winds to the area.

Snow did hit New York^[126], but melted quickly and gave way to sleet and freezing rain, creating treacherous conditions for New Yorkers to travel in.

New York City faces a nearly 700-day snow drought and many thought this weekend’s storm would break that.

Nearly 20 million people across the country received winter warnings, with parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey expected to get up to two inches of snow per hour.

Officials in the Northeast have warned of dangerous conditions and cautioned against travelling unnecessarily.

Heavy snow coats New York as Winter Storm hits Northeast^[127]

Gulf coast braces for tornadoes

Monday 8 January 2024 14:29 , Martha Mchardy

The Gulf Coast is bracing for tornadoes today amid a major storm in the region.

The National Weather Service has warned severe thunderstorms capable of strong wind gusts and tornadoes are expected across the Gulf Coast States this afternoon.

The agency added that the severe weather will continue into Tuesday morning in southeast Texas and southern Louisiana across southern Mississippi, southern Alabama to the western Florida Panhandle.

“Severe thunderstorms capable of strong wind gusts and tornadoes are expected across the Gulf Coast States this afternoon through early Tuesday morning, spanning southeast Texas and southern Louisiana across southern Mississippi, southern Alabama to the western Florida Panhandle,” the NWS said.

Heavy snowfall in Massachusetts and New Hampshire

Monday 8 January 2024 14:25 , Martha Mchardy

People make their way across the snowy street to the Southern New Hampshire University Arena to see a show in Manchester, New Hampshire (AFP via Getty Images)

A person clears snow in front of a business in Manchester, New Hampshire (AFP via Getty Images)

A snowplow clears snow from Broadway in Methuen, Massachusetts on January 7 (AFP via Getty Images)

Blizzard warnings issued in several states

Monday 8 January 2024 14:01 , Martha Mchardy

Blizzard warnings have been issued in several states amid a major storm across the southeast of the US.

Warnings were in effect from northeast Arizona up to southern Nebraska, where up to a foot of snow had fallen by Monday morning.

Meanwhile, the NWS has warned that more than half a dozen states could see snowfall through Monday afternoon and overnight.^[128]

Photo shows tornado hit Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Monday 8 January 2024 13:30 , Martha Mchardy

A tornado hit Fort Lauderdale, Florida over the weekend, causing an explosion.

The tornado hit power cables in the city of Fort Lauderdale, causing a generator to explode.

Fort Lauderdale officials said in a Facebook post that no injuries have been reported, and the damage from the storm appears to be minor.

Sparks fly as a tornado touches power cables, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, U.S (Paul Gallo via REUTERS)

Storm Finn a ‘Kitchen Sink Storm,’ says senior meteorologis

Monday 8 January 2024 12:59 , Martha Mchardy

The Weather Channel’s senior meteorologist Chris Dolce called has called Finn a “kitchen sink storm.”

A kitchen sink storm described a storm that causes many hazards at once, according to Mr Dolce.

Storm Finn is expected to bring rainfall, strong winds, snow and tornadoes to the southeast of the US on Monday.

“Finn’s threats cover a broad spectrum and the storm is just getting underway in the West,” Mr Dolce said.

“Areas from the Central Plains to the upper Midwest and parts of the western and northern Great Lakes will see a combo of snow and strong winds, contributing to low visibility and dangerous travel conditions Monday through Tuesday,” he added.

Heavy sonwfall pictured in Massachusetts

Monday 8 January 2024 12:40 , Martha Mchardy

A woman throws snow while shovelling her car during the first winter storm of 2024 which is expected to bring heavy snowfall across the northeast United States (REUTERS)

Tornadoes could hit multiple states on Monday

Monday 8 January 2024 12:19 , Martha Mchardy

Tornadoes could hit multiple states on Monday amid a powerful storm in the southeast of the US.

Storm Finn is expected to bring tornadoes to cities including New Orleans, Louisiana, Gulfport, Mississippi, and Mobile, Alabama.

The threat of dangerous nighttime tornadoes may ramp up Monday night and early Tuesday, especially from southeast Louisiana to southern Mississippi, southern Alabama and the western Florida Panhandle.

NWS issues safety tips amid major storm

Monday 8 January 2024 12:11 , Martha Mchardy

Recap: Heavy snow coats New York as Winter Storm hits Northeast

Monday 8 January 2024 11:59 , Martha Mchardy

Strong winds to bring flash flooding to eastern Gulf Coast and much of the East Coast

Monday 8 January 2024 11:35 , Martha Mchardy

Strong winds could cause flash flooding along the eastern Gulf Coast and much of the East Coast, according to the Weather Prediction Center.

Between one to three inches of rainfall is expected in the Gulf Coast, stretching to New England, while rainfall in isolated locations could exceed four inches.

“Widespread and potentially significant river and flash flooding are likely from the central Gulf Coast through much of the Eastern U.S. early this week,” the Weather Prediction Center said. “Powerful onshore winds will lead to widespread coastal flooding along the eastern Gulf Coast and much of the East Coast.”

There’s serious concern for flooding in the Northeast with this next wave of rain coming right after a previous snowstorm dropped more than half a foot of snow in multiple Northeast states.

Meanwhile, there is a Level 3 out of 4 risk for flooding in portions of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania on Tuesday. A Level 2 of 4 threat spans nearly the entire path of the first storm – from Georgia through Massachusetts.

A Level 3 of 4 risk for flooding is also in place along the western coast of Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle for the flood potential from the initial round of rain on Monday.

Major storm causes road closures and flight cancellations

Monday 8 January 2024 11:00 , Martha Mchardy

A major storm has caused severe travel disruption in the southeast, with roads closed and flights cancelled.

Officials in Arizona have warned against non-essential travel after multiple crashes closed parts of the I-40.

Meanwhile, More than 6,000 flights into, out of, or within the US were also delayed on Sunday due to severe weather, according to FlightAware.

At least 828 US flights were canceled on the same day.

Some airports have also reported significant operational disruptions. Near Hartford, Connecticut, Bradley International Airport, announced 20 percent of its flights had been canceled Sunday as snow removal operations were underway.

Cuyama Valley, California, under a hard freeze warning until Tuesday morning

Monday 8 January 2024 10:56 , Martha Mchardy

Cuyama Valley, California is under a hard freeze warning until Tuesday morning, the National Weather Service has said.

NWS issues a hard freeze warning when temperatures are expected to drop below 28°F for an extended period of time, killing most types of commercial crops and residential plants.

The warning will remain in effect until 10am PST, while a hard freeze watch will be in place until Tuesday morning.

The NWS has warned of damage to outdoor plumbing and severe damage to crops or sensitive vegetation, as well as harm to unprotected pets or livestock.

“Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold,” the NWS said in a statement. “To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing.“

Texas Governor increases readiness of State Operations Center ahead of severe weather

Monday 8 January 2024 10:50 , Martha Mchardy

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has increased the readiness of State Operations Center to level two ahead of a severe storm that is expected to hit the southeast today.

According to the National Weather Service, an early week system of storms will bring multiple hazards to the state beginning Monday, including strong winds, blowing snow, critical fire weather conditions, and severe thunderstorms.

Snowfall and dangerous wind chills are expected to impact the Panhandle, while fire weather conditions are anticipated in West/Southwest Texas.

Meanwhile, severe thunderstorms with large hail, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding threats are expected to impact East/Southeast Texas, while gusts could reach 60-70 miles per hour in some areas.

“The State of Texas stands ready to deploy all available resources to take care of Texans and our communities as multiple severe weather threats begin to impact the state tomorrow,” said Governor Abbott. “To ensure that support and resources are swiftly deployed to all impacted communities, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to increase the readiness level of the State Operation Center. Texans in at-risk areas are encouraged to remain vigilant, monitor weather conditions, and heed the guidance of local officials and emergency management personnel.”

Major storm to bring dangerous blizzards and floods to southeast

Monday 8 January 2024 10:34 , Martha Mchardy

Major winter storms are pummelling vast swathes of the US, with dangerous blizzards, flash flooding and possible tornadoes heading to the Southeast this week after the East Coast was blanketed in heavy snow over the weekend.^{[129][130][131][132][133]}

Almost 70 million^[134] Americans are bracing for severe weather^[135] which is currently charting a path towards the Gulf Coast and Southeast on Monday and Tuesday.

Storm Finn is expected to bring tornadoes to cities including New Orleans, Louisiana, Gulfport, Mississippi, and Mobile, Alabama, while more than half a dozen states could see snowfall through Monday afternoon and overnight.^[136]

The National Weather Service forecasts that the storm will head further east on Tuesday, hitting Tallahassee, Florida, Albany, Georgia, and Panama City, Florida, meanwhile the Cuyama Valley, California, is under a hard freeze warning until Tuesday morning.

Severe weather has already caused disruption,^[137] with officials in Arizona warning against non-essential travel after multiple crashes closed parts of the I-40.

More than 6,000 flights into, out of, or within the US were also delayed or cancelled on Sunday due to severe weather, according to FlightAware. It comes after Storm Ember brought 18 inches of snow to parts of the Northeast including New York.

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50. ^{^} Associated Press (apnews.com)
51. ^{^} Spectrum News NY 1 (ny1.com)
52. ^{^} New York Daily News (www.nydailynews.com)
53. ^{^} The Washington Post (www.washingtonpost.com)
54. ^{^} FlightAware (www.flightaware.com)
55. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
56. ^{^} Associated Press (apnews.com)
57. ^{^} says (twitter.com)
58. ^{^} #chswx (twitter.com)
59. ^{^} pic.twitter.com/JqtZI9um0S (t.co)
60. ^{^} January 9, 2024 (twitter.com)
61. ^{^} New York (www.wgrz.com)
62. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
63. ^{^} Strong winds (twitter.com)
64. ^{^} Associated Press (apnews.com)
65. ^{^} PowerOutage.us (poweroutage.us)
66. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
67. ^{^} PowerOutage.us (poweroutage.us)
68. ^{^} FlightAware (www.flightaware.com)
69. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
70. ^{^} Spectrum News NY 1 (ny1.com)
71. ^{^} New York Daily News (www.nydailynews.com)
72. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
73. ^{^} “intense” squall line (www.weather.gov)
74. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.spc.noaa.gov)
75. ^{^} every county (www.weather.gov)
76. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
77. ^{^} warned (twitter.com)
78. ^{^} pic.twitter.com/Bf4yTw31GU (t.co)
79. ^{^} January 9, 2024 (twitter.com)
80. ^{^} FlightAware (www.flightaware.com)
81. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.weather.gov)
82. ^{^} @bclemms (twitter.com)
83. ^{^} #FLwx (twitter.com)
84. ^{^} pic.twitter.com/fLueJVYctN (t.co)
85. ^{^} January 9, 2024 (twitter.com)
86. ^{^} Walton County (www.wpbf.com)
87. ^{^} Fort Lauderdale (www.nbcnews.com)
88. ^{^} Panama City Beach (www.fox35orlando.com)
89. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.spc.noaa.gov)
90. ^{^} NBC Los Angeles (www.nbclosangeles.com)
91. ^{^} reports (www.cbsnews.com)
92. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.weather.gov)
93. ^{^} The Washington Post (www.washingtonpost.com)
94. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov)
95. ^{^} FlightAware (www.flightaware.com)
96. ^{^} The Washington Post (www.washingtonpost.com)
97. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.spc.noaa.gov)
98. ^{^} The Weather Channel (twitter.com)
99. ^{^} PowerOutage.us (poweroutage.us)
100. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
101. ^{^} FlightAware (www.flightaware.com)
102. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
103. ^{^} FlightAware (www.flightaware.com)
104. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
105. ^{^} National Weather Service (twitter.com)
106. ^{^} The Washington Post (www.washingtonpost.com)
107. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.spc.noaa.gov)
108. ^{^} PowerOutage.us (poweroutage.us)
109. ^{^} NBC Los Angeles (www.nbclosangeles.com)
110. ^{^} reports (www.cbsnews.com)
111. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov)
112. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.weather.gov)
113. ^{^} FlightAware (www.flightaware.com)
114. ^{^} reports (www.fox13seattle.com)
115. ^{^} #lawx (twitter.com)
116. ^{^} #mswx (twitter.com)
117. ^{^} pic.twitter.com/ElemmQ8GGc (t.co)
118. ^{^} January 8, 2024 (twitter.com)
119. ^{^} The New York Times (www.nytimes.com)
120. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.spc.noaa.gov)
121. ^{^} National Weather Service (www.weather.gov)
122. ^{^} CNN (www.cnn.com)
123. ^{^} FlightAware (www.flightaware.com)
124. ^{^} Northeast (www.independent.co.uk)
125. ^{^} snow (www.independent.co.uk)
126. ^{^} New York (www.independent.co.uk)
127. ^{^} Heavy snow coats New York as Winter Storm hits Northeast (www.aol.co.uk)
128. ^{^} half a dozen states could see snowfall through Monday afternoon and overnight. (www.aol.co.uk)
129. ^{^} blizzards (www.independent.co.uk)
130. ^{^} flash flooding (www.independent.co.uk)
131. ^{^} tornadoes (www.independent.co.uk)
132. ^{^} Southeast (www.independent.co.uk)
133. ^{^} the East Coast was blanketed in heavy snow over the weekend. (www.aol.co.uk)
134. ^{^} Almost 70 million (www.aol.co.uk)
135. ^{^} weather (www.independent.co.uk)
136. ^{^} half a dozen states could see snowfall through Monday afternoon and overnight. (www.aol.co.uk)
137. ^{^} Severe weather has already caused disruption, (www.independent.co.uk)