Thousands still without power as brutal temperatures head to the South

Published: Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 12:00 am

Southern States Brace for Another Round of Winter Weather

The South is facing a second wave of severe winter weather, less than a week after an ice storm caused widespread damage and power outages. The National Weather Service has issued cold weather alerts from Texas to Florida, warning of dangerously low temperatures that could lead to hypothermia. The initial storm resulted in several dozen fatalities across multiple states, attributed to hypothermia, carbon monoxide poisoning, and accidents.

As the region recovers from the initial storm, another arctic blast is expected to bring frigid temperatures. Temperatures are forecast to plummet into the teens in parts of Tennessee and Mississippi, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Thousands of residents in these states remain without power, exacerbating the risks associated with the cold. Infrastructure in these areas is often not designed to withstand ice storms, making restoration efforts more challenging.

The Sunshine State is also bracing for a significant cold snap. Florida is expected to experience its coldest temperatures in over 15 years, with lows in the 20s across much of the state. This could challenge daily record lows in cities like Tallahassee, Jacksonville, and Orlando. The agricultural industry is preparing for potential damage to crops, with citrus growers activating frost protection measures. Wildlife, including reptiles, are also at risk, with zoos taking precautions to protect their animals.

The National Weather Service warns that strong, gusty winds accompanying the cold front could create additional hazards. Residents are advised to secure any coverings around sensitive plants and pipes.

BNN's Perspective: The situation highlights the vulnerability of infrastructure in the South to extreme weather events. While the immediate focus is on providing aid and restoring power, this event underscores the need for long-term investments in infrastructure resilience and preparedness to mitigate the impact of increasingly frequent and severe weather patterns.

Keywords: Winter Storm, Cold Weather, Power Outages, Hypothermia, Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi, Weather Alerts, Arctic Blast, Frost, Freeze, Agriculture, Infrastructure, Climate Change.

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