Almost 90 fatalities following intense winter storms in the United States.

Severe winter storms have caused almost 90 weather-related deaths in the United States over the past week. The highest number of fatalities occurred in Tennessee and Oregon, with 25 and 16 deaths, respectively. Oregon remains in a state of emergency due to the impacts of severe ice storms. Large areas of the country are still experiencing power outages, affecting tens of thousands of people. Icy conditions are predicted to persist until the middle of the week. According to CBS, the US partner of the BBC, a total of 89 weather-related deaths have been reported nationwide during this time frame. These fatalities have been recorded in various states including Illinois, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Washington, and others. Among the incidents, three individuals in Portland, Oregon were electrocuted when a fallen power line struck their vehicle during powerful winds. Tragically, four deaths occurred in Illinois and a person died in a multi-car crash in Kentucky, with investigations ongoing. In Seattle, five individuals, primarily assumed to be homeless, passed away within four days because of the extreme weather conditions. Mississippi is warning drivers to only venture out if necessary and take caution due to black ice on the roads. Additionally, colleges and universities have postponed the return of students from winter break. Officials in Mississippi are also investigating if rumors of potential water shortages caused residents to stockpile water, resulting in temporary water pressure drops and dry faucets in Jackson. Although power has been restored in several areas, tens of thousands of people remain without electricity across the country. As of Sunday afternoon, the highest numbers of those affected were in Oregon, North Carolina, California, and Kentucky. Icy conditions and cold winds are projected to persist into the beginning of the week. Subsequently, temperatures are expected to rise, raising concerns about flooding due to warm air and rain in parts of the Midwest and northeastern US.