The United States is experiencing a severe winter storm covering an area over 2,000 km, with the death toll rising to 62. Meanwhile, widespread power outages continue. President Donald Trump has approved emergency declarations in 12 states. .
On 28 Jan 2026 GMT+7, the news website USA Today reported that a severe winter storm hitting several U.S. states over the past week has caused at least 62 deaths, up from the previously reported 38. Many deaths are related to extreme cold, road accidents, slips and falls, falling into frozen water bodies, and being struck by snowplows. In New York City alone, there have been at least eight deaths.
Sohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City, stated that the exact causes of death have not been confirmed, but all victims were found outdoors and likely suffered prolonged exposure to extreme cold.
The U.S. National Weather Service described this storm as extremely severe, covering areas from Texas and Arkansas to New York and Massachusetts. It has caused many roads to become icy, paralyzed travel, and widespread power outages.
According to Poweroutage.us, as of 09:30 Eastern Time on 28 Jan 2026 GMT+7, over 383,335 electricity users remain without power. Tennessee is the hardest hit with over 129,927 users affected, followed by Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Kentucky, South Carolina, Georgia, and Massachusetts.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump approved disaster emergency declarations in 12 states through the Federal Emergency Management Agency to expedite aid.
Experts warn that a new wave of cold air from the Arctic is likely to move southward again, covering southern U.S. areas. Residents in many states are urged to remain vigilant against dangers from snow, ice, and low temperatures.
Source: AP / USA Today