Torrential downpours over the weekend have drenched parts of the south-eastern United States, claiming at least a dozen lives amid heavy rain.
Torrential downpours over the weekend have drenched parts of the south-eastern United States, submerging roads and houses, resulting in at least 10 deaths.
Floods in the United States are often caused by heavy rainfall, storm surges, and snowmelt.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the most flood-prone states include Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and North Carolina.
The economic impact of US floods is significant, with damages estimated at over $8 billion annually.
To mitigate these effects, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides disaster relief funding and promotes floodplain management initiatives.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has confirmed nine storm-related fatalities in his state, including a mother and her seven-year-old child who were stuck in high water.
The rapid influx of rain caused river levels to rise quickly, trapping vehicles in feet of water, images posted online show.
Hundreds of roads were closed, and 1,000 rescues were carried out across the state since the storms began on Saturday.
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife is investigating a death and a rescue operation is underway in Hart County.
Flash flooding was possible in the Mississippi, Tennessee, and Ohio valleys, and the National Weather Service warned residents to stay off the roads.
Flash flooding occurs when a large amount of water flows over a normally dry area in a short period, often caused by intense rainfall.
This type of flood can be deadly and destructive, as it can catch people off guard.
According to the National Weather Service, flash floods account for approximately 200 fatalities annually in the United States.
The rapid onset of flash flooding makes it crucial for individuals to stay informed about weather conditions and follow evacuation orders promptly.
Heavy snow was expected to blanket much of New England and then transition to sleet, making travel nearly impossible.
The storms had knocked out power to about 39,000 homes, but Beshear warned that harsh winds in some areas could increase outages.
A ‘major, potentially historic, flash flood event’ is what the National Weather Service called the expected rain.
A 73-year-old man was found dead in floodwaters in Clay County, Kentucky, and another person died in Atlanta, Georgia, after powerful winds uprooted a tree that crashed into his home.
The White House has approved the emergency disaster declaration requested by Beshear, authorizing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema) to coordinate disaster relief efforts.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a state of emergency in 10 southern counties due to heavy rains and flooding.
The same weather system is now bringing heavy snow to parts of Canada, with arctic air expected to bring record-breaking cold and dangerous wind chills to the central US this week.
Heavy snow refers to significant accumulation of snowfall in a short period, often causing disruptions and hazards.
On average, heavy snow occurs when 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) or more falls within a 12-hour window.
This can lead to power outages, transportation disruptions, and increased risk of accidents.
According to the National Weather Service, heavy snow events account for over 70% of all winter-related deaths in the United States.
Understanding the risks associated with heavy snow is crucial for emergency preparedness and response.
The National Weather Service warned that ice accumulations up to a quarter inch could make driving conditions hazardous, and power outages and tree damage are likely due to the ice and strong winds.
Kentucky was severely affected, with parts of western Kentucky facing up to 8 inches of rain.
The state’s emergency declaration has been approved, and federal funds for affected areas have been requested.
West Virginia also issued a state of emergency in several counties, and Arkansas was under flood warnings.
Tennessee experienced flash flooding, with the town of Rives being deluged from the breached flood barrier.
Steve Carr, the Obion County mayor, declared a state of emergency himself, ordering mandatory evacuations in Rives.
In Virginia, water submerged cars and buildings, and mudslides blocked roads.
The National Weather Service warned residents to stay off the roads, and Kristi Noem, head of the Department of Homeland Security, said that DHS stands ready to take immediate action to offer resources and support.
Heavy snow was expected to blanket much of New England and then transition to sleet, making travel nearly impossible.
In northern New York, heavy mixed precipitation was expected throughout the weekend.
The Midwest and Upper Plains were also affected by winter weather advisories, with up to 4 inches of snow predicted throughout Iowa, southern Wisconsin, and most of Michigan.
Frigid polar vortex forces are pushing chilly air into the US and Europe, with temperatures expected to drop as low as 14 degrees in Denver.
In California, dry weather returned after a strong storm, but the risk of rock and mudslides on wildfire-scarred hillsides continued due to recent wildfires.
The weather service warned that extreme cold was expected in the Upper Plains over the coming days, with wind chills ranging from minus 30 degrees to as low as minus 60 in parts of western Montana, North Dakota, northern South Dakota, and western Minnesota.
People in those areas were urged to stay indoors and make provisions to shelter livestock and other animals.
