A severe winter storm and Arctic cold wave sweeping across the United States has left at least 65 people dead in weather-related incidents, authorities and media outlets reported, as life remains paralyzed in many states. The deaths—linked to extreme cold, heavy snow, icy roads, and related accidents—have occurred across multiple regions, from the Midwest to the East and South, since the powerful weather system struck late last week.

 

Temperatures plunged well below freezing in cities such as Chicago and Cleveland, while dangerous road conditions have triggered traffic accidents and contributed to the fatalities. Snow and ice have caused major travel disruptions, flight cancellations, and power outages affecting hundreds of thousands of residents, leaving communities struggling with rolling blackouts and hazardous conditions.

Officials have warned the cold part of Winter Storm Fern will persist for several more days, urging people to avoid unnecessary travel, check on vulnerable neighbours and seek shelter from hypothermia and frostbite risks.