US: Charlotte, North Carolina, Dallas-Fort Worth, Nashville, Memphis, Tennessee Facing Severe Power Cut as Wintry Blizzard Continues

Published on January 11, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

A winter storm delivered a powerful blow to the southern United States, dropping significant amounts of snow and ice, and creating treacherous travel conditions from Texas to the Carolinas. The storm brought over a year’s worth of snow to some cities, with Memphis, Tennessee, receiving more than 7 inches—far exceeding its annual average of 2.7 inches. Little Rock, Arkansas, was similarly blanketed with nearly 10 inches, far surpassing its typical yearly snowfall.

Travel Disruptions Worsen

The storm wreaked havoc on travel, with icy roads and poor visibility making driving dangerous. Officials in Georgia, Tennessee, and other states urged residents to avoid non-essential travel. The chaos extended to air travel, where hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed at major airports, including Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport. An aborted Delta flight in Atlanta led to minor injuries and further disrupted operations.

Power Outages Leave Thousands in the Dark

Freezing rain and falling trees triggered power outages for more than 110,000 customers, particularly in the Atlanta area. Utility crews worked tirelessly through challenging conditions to restore power, but icy roads and high winds slowed progress. Georgia Power and other energy providers reiterated calls for caution and patience as repair efforts continued.

Emergency Declarations and School Closures

Governors in multiple states declared states of emergency, mobilizing resources to address the storm’s widespread impacts. National Guard troops were deployed in Arkansas and North Carolina to assist stranded motorists and clear roadways. Schools were closed across affected regions, offering millions of children a rare snow day in areas unaccustomed to winter weather.

Unusual Weather Patterns Raise Concerns

Meteorologists noted that the storm’s intensity was linked to the polar vortex, a system of frigid air typically confined to the Arctic but increasingly affecting temperate regions due to climate variability. Experts suggested such phenomena might become more common as global temperatures rise.

Regional Variations in Storm Impact

• Texas and Oklahoma: Early in the week, these states faced heavy snowfall and icy roads, with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott urging caution as fans flocked to AT&T Stadium for a college football semifinal.
• Georgia: Snowfall in Atlanta led to joyful scenes, including snow angels and snowmen, as many residents experienced their first significant snowfall in years. However, the delight was tempered by dangerous road conditions and widespread power outages.
• The Carolinas and Beyond: Freezing rain and sleet in the Carolinas transitioned to snow, making roads hazardous and disrupting local transportation. South Carolina saw its first substantial winter weather in three years, straining resources and infrastructure.

Broader Implications for Travel and Tourism

The storm’s timing underscores the challenges of winter travel in a warming world, where extreme weather events disrupt plans and expose vulnerabilities in infrastructure. For travelers, the storm serves as a stark reminder to prepare for unexpected delays and hazards during the colder months.

Ongoing Weather Warnings

The National Weather Service warned that snow and ice would persist into the weekend, with parts of Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee forecast to receive up to 8 inches of snow. Officials continued to stress the importance of caution on icy roads and urged drivers to give snowplows space to operate.

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Economic and Community Impacts

The storm’s impact stretched beyond travel disruptions, with businesses closing, events being postponed, and communities rallying to support those affected. Emergency shelters opened for those without power, and local governments coordinated efforts to ensure public safety.

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