Severe Winter Storm Claims Five Lives and Disrupts Nation

Sat Dec 20 2025 10:51:37 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A significant winter storm wreaks havoc across the US, causing multiple fatalities, travel disruptions, and emergency declarations in seven states.

A powerful winter storm has swept through the United States, leading to the deaths of at least five individuals, widespread school closures, cancelled flights, power outages, and dangerous travel conditions. As heavy snowfall continues, states such as Maryland, Virginia, and Kansas have declared emergencies.

The United States is grappling with a major winter storm that has resulted in at least five fatalities and extensive disruptions across multiple states. The icy conditions have led to widespread school closures, travel chaos, and significant power outages. Emergency declarations have been issued in seven states: Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and Arkansas.

As of Monday, over 2,000 flights had been cancelled, with approximately 6,500 delays reported due to the extreme weather attributed to the polar vortex affecting the region. Over a quarter of a million individuals found themselves without power during the storm's peak, with continued snowfall anticipated well into the night across the East Coast.

In Washington, DC, where federal offices and schools closed, snowfall measured between 5 to 9 inches (13-23 cm), with local areas in Maryland and Virginia accumulating up to a foot of snow. Residents in the capital took advantage of the conditions, engaging in a traditional snowball fight near the Washington Monument. Former Olympian skier Clare Egan was sighted cross-country skiing through the National Mall, enjoying the unexpected winter weather.

The storm, dubbed Winter Storm Blair by meteorologists, has prompted schools to remain closed, giving children a snow day after the holiday break. Meanwhile, the storm has also led to treacherous road conditions across various states. Missouri reported at least 365 vehicle crashes on Sunday, resulting in numerous injuries and one death, while Kansas faced its own crisis with two fatalities linked to traffic incidents.

In Virginia, authorities recorded 300 car crashes within a single night, advising residents to avoid driving unless necessary. Additional warnings stemmed from Matthew Cappucci, a senior meteorologist, urging citizens to stay home as road conditions worsened dramatically.

Amidst the chaos, over 260,000 residents were reported to be without power, particularly in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia. As the storm continues to exert its influence, the public is cautioned to remain vigilant and prioritize safety in these severe winter conditions.