Trump declares state of emergency. The US faces an extreme storm.
The United States faced a massive winter storm over the weekend that affected more than 12 states and caused transportation chaos and power outages.
A federal state of emergency was declared in the southeastern and mid-eastern states, where more than 230,000 households were left without power, mainly in Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi. According to meteorologists, the storm, with snow, freezing rain, and extreme cold, will also affect other areas.
President Donald Trump called the storm "historic" and urged caution. Airlines canceled more than 13,000 flights over the weekend, and utility companies and the government implemented emergency measures to mitigate the impact.
The Department of Energy has authorized the use of backup power sources outside of normal environmental restrictions. Americans are advised to stock up on supplies and stay safe. Record low temperatures and winds are expected, which could paralyze infrastructure.
(reuters, pir)