As temperatures across the Southern United States climb above freezing, residents from Texas to New Orleans are beginning the long process of recovering from an unprecedented winter storm. The storm, which dumped record-breaking snow totals on the region, has left behind a trail of destruction, claiming at least 12 lives and causing widespread disruptions.
While warmer temperatures are expected to speed up the snowmelt, the effects of the storm—including injuries, road hazards, and agricultural damage—could linger for weeks or even months.
Winter Storm Recap: Unusual Snowfall in the South
The storm brought unprecedented snowfall to areas unaccustomed to extreme winter weather:
- Pensacola, Florida – Over 7 inches of snow, with temperatures rising from 26°F to 44°F.
- Mobile, Alabama – Received 7.5 inches of snow, with temperatures increasing from 13°F to 47°F.
- Houston, Texas – Expected to warm above 50°F by Thursday afternoon.
By the weekend, forecasters predict temperatures will reach the 60s, quickly melting the snow. However, major challenges remain as the South struggles to return to normal.
Ongoing Impacts of the Storm
1. Injuries and Hospital Overcrowding
The winter storm has led to a spike in injuries, especially from falls on icy surfaces and overexertion while shoveling snow.
- Ochsner Health in New Orleans reported a significant increase in emergency visits, including eight hip fractures in a single day.
- 40% to 50% of hospital admissions were fracture-related during the storm.
- Many non-emergency medical appointments were canceled, leading to backlogged patient care.
- Emergency response times were slowed as ambulances struggled to navigate icy roads.
Hospitals are now experiencing delays in discharging patients, as icy roads prevent safe travel, causing a bottleneck in emergency care.
2. Dangerous Road Conditions and Vehicle Damage
Even as the snow melts, roads remain hazardous due to refreezing at night, creating black ice and increasing the risk of accidents.
- Georgia Department of Public Safety received 1,960 weather-related service calls and reported 250 crashes during the storm.
- AAA Alabama reported a 200% spike in calls for roadside assistance due to the storm.
- Many vehicles sustained damage from accidents, icy roads, and fallen branches.
Drivers are advised to remain cautious, especially in the early mornings and evenings when temperatures drop and refreezing occurs.
3. Agricultural and Crop Damage
While farmers and ranchers in Texas don’t expect severe long-term damage, some crops and plants have suffered:
- Citrus trees and tropical plants in Florida sustained damage from freezing temperatures.
- Younger, uncovered lemon and orange trees were likely killed by the freeze.
- Winter wheat crops in Texas were largely unaffected, and the moisture from snowfall may even help crop growth.
Fortunately, since the storm hit in January, most crops were not at their most vulnerable stage. Had it occurred in February or March, the damage could have been far worse.
What’s Next?
With temperatures rising, Southern states will soon see snow melting into slush, revealing potentially hidden damages. However, recovery will take time, and officials continue to urge caution as the region gets back on its feet.
Key Takeaways:
- Temperatures will continue rising, reaching the 60s by the weekend.
- Icy roads remain a danger, even after snowfall stops.
- Hospitals are overwhelmed due to a surge in injuries from slips, falls, and overexertion.
- Agricultural damage is localized, with some citrus crops affected but major crops largely spared.
- Power outages and infrastructure damage could prolong the recovery process in some areas.
Residents should remain vigilant, check road conditions before traveling, and follow safety advisories as communities work to recover from this historic winter storm.
