A life-threatening deep freeze continues to grip large parts of the United States after a powerful winter storm swept from the Deep South to the Northeast, leaving at least 38 people dead, knocking out power to hundreds
of thousands and causing widespread travel disruptions.
The storm brought heavy snow, freezing rain and dangerously low temperatures, paralysing roads, grounding flights and overwhelming emergency services. Many of the reported deaths have been linked to hypothermia, weather-related accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning and injuries during snow removal, officials said.
The bitter cold has dramatically altered landscapes across the Northeast. In New York City, the Hudson River is filled with floating ice, underscoring the severity of the prolonged spell of below-freezing temperatures gripping the region. Several cities have recorded their coldest conditions in years.
🥶 The Hudson River is filled with floating ice as New York City endures a stretch of below-freezing temperatures.
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) January 28, 2026
Despite cleanup efforts still underway, forecasters warn that the situation could worsen. Another Arctic blast expected this weekend may affect more than 100 million Americans, threatening record low temperatures and the possibility of another major storm, even as municipalities continue clearing deep snow and restoring power.
Emergency shelters have been opened in multiple states as authorities urge residents to stay indoors, conserve heat and check on vulnerable populations. Power crews and first responders remain on high alert as the US braces for yet another round of extreme winter weather.
