Deadly US winter storm leaves flights delayed and thousands without power

January 27, 2026

A devastating winter storm swept across the United States from Texas to Maine over the weekend, resulting in at least 20 weather-related deaths and causing massive transportation disruptions. The storm deposited over 20 inches of snow in northeastern regions within 24 hours and left more than half a million people without electricity, with Tennessee's Nashville area being particularly hard hit. On Monday alone, airlines cancelled over 6,000 flights while thousands more experienced delays, and the severe conditions created hazardous road conditions with downed trees and power lines.

Who is affected

At least 20 people who died across multiple states (including victims in New York City, Louisiana, Texas, North Carolina, Massachusetts, Kansas, and Pennsylvania)
A teenage girl who died in a sledding accident in Frisco, Texas, and another in critical condition
More than half a million power users without electricity, particularly in Tennessee/Nashville
Residents across states from Texas to Maine experiencing cold and darkness
Air travelers affected by over 6,000 cancelled flights and 7,000 delayed flights
Nashville Rescue Mission homeless shelter residents and staff
Communities in southern Ontario, Ottawa, Quebec, and the Maritimes region in Canada
Students and families affected by school closures in Canada

What action is being taken

The Nashville Rescue Mission homeless shelter is taking calls from residents who have lost power
Authorities in Buncombe County, North Carolina are investigating a potential weather-related death
The National Weather Service is monitoring and forecasting continuing lake-effect snow and potential upcoming storms
BBC Weather is tracking continued snowfall expected in Canada's Maritimes region

Why it matters

This storm represents a significant and deadly weather event affecting a vast geographic area spanning multiple states and parts of Canada, demonstrating the severe impact of winter weather on public safety and critical infrastructure. The loss of at least 20 lives, combined with widespread power outages leaving over half a million people in the cold, highlights the life-threatening nature of extreme winter conditions, particularly for vulnerable populations. The massive transportation disruptions—with thousands of cancelled and delayed flights—show how severe weather can paralyze regional and national mobility. The warning of another potentially significant storm approaching within days means affected regions may face compounding challenges before conditions improve, placing additional strain on emergency services and infrastructure already stretched by the current crisis.

What's next

Lake-effect snow showers are due to persist around the Great Lakes for the rest of the week
Snow is expected to continue in Canada's Maritimes region on Tuesday
The coming days will remain very cold in central and eastern regions of North America
The situation is expected to intensify ahead of the weekend
Another significant winter storm could hit the eastern US beginning on Friday, potentially bringing very cold temperatures across the eastern US and widespread heavy precipitation
The NWS noted that forecasters do not yet know the potential path of this upcoming storm or where it will have the most impact

Read full article from source: BBC