## Extreme Winter Weather Impacts the USA (as of January 27, 2024)
The United States experienced a severe winter weather event in late December 2022 and early January 2023, resulting in significant disruption and loss of life. While the provided text is dated, a review of reporting confirms the scale of the event. As of January 27, 2024, there have been no significant new developments regarding the aftermath of this specific storm system, but winter weather continues to be a recurring issue across the US.
## Casualties and Impacts of the Winter Storm
At least 30 deaths were initially attributed to the extreme winter weather in late December 2022/early January 2023, including seven fatalities from a plane crash in Maine. NBC news reported that the death toll eventually exceeded 60 across multiple states. Causes of death included hypothermia, traffic accidents, and incidents related to snow removal. The Federal Aviation Management (FAA) confirmed a small plane crashed in Maine during a snowstorm on December 31, 2022, resulting in seven fatalities. Governor Janet Mills of Maine issued a statement regarding the crash.
## Power Outages and State of Emergency Declarations
Over 530,000 households were without power due to heavy snowfall, with states of emergency declared in approximately 20 states, including Washington State. PowerOutage.us, a website tracking power outages, showed significant disruptions, particularly in the Southern United States. Tennessee experienced over 175,000 outages, Mississippi over 140,000, and Louisiana nearly 100,000. While power has been restored, winter storms continue to cause outages annually.
## Travel Disruptions and Airport Cancellations
The storm caused widespread travel disruptions, including massive flight cancellations at major airports like Washington, philadelphia, and New York. flightaware data showed over 9,000 flights were canceled during the peak of the storm. The disruptions stranded travelers for extended periods, as exemplified by the account of Alan Vazquez at Dallas Fort Worth airport. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported significant impacts to air travel during this period.
## New York and New Jersey Impacts
Eight additional deaths were reported in New York, with the causes under inquiry. In New Jersey, a man was found deceased in the snow while attempting to shovel snow. The State of New Jersey activated its emergency operations center in response to the storm.
