Winter Storm Batters U.S. with 31 Inches of Snow and 71 MPH Winds, Causing 38 Deaths

As a massive winter storm continues to impact much of America, USA Today reports that there have been at least 38 deaths as of January 27, 2026. The weather system has been so deadly due to widespread extreme conditions, including destructive ice buildups, heavy snow, sub-zero temperatures, and powerful wind gusts.

Massive Winter Storm Pummels U.S. With 31 Inches of Snow and 71-MPH Winds

On January 26, 2026, USA Today reported on the top snowfall totals that have been measured across the country. Bonito Lake, New Mexico, has received 31 inches of snow, which is the highest figure nationwide, while New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has seen 23 inches. A National Weather Service website reveals that other cities across the country are dealing with similar levels, including 30 inches in Ulster County, New York.

Also on January 26, 2026, The Weather Channel published an article that revealed several stunning details about the same weather system. That piece states that a wind gust that reached 71 mph had been measured in Montgomery, Alabama.

Heavy snowfall and powerful winds create severe travel hazards when combined. Men's Journal's automotive writer, Brian Iselin has offered key advice on how to drive in whiteout conditions if doing so is unavoidable. He recommends turning on your headlights (not your hazards), avoiding cruise control, and steering smoothly if you start to slide. Most of all, he warns against pulling off to the side of the road unless absolutely neccesary, stating that it turns a vehicle into a stationary target.

Thick Ice and Sub-Zero Temps Wreak Havoc Across Much of the U.S.

A Fox Weather report has described the extreme effects that the accumulation of an inch of ice has had in Mississippi. "People in Oxford, Mississippi, are seeing crippling effects from the ongoing winter storm, including an inch of paralyzing ice that's causing widespread power outages and a plethora of downed trees and power lines." When things were at their worst, the storm left more than 1 million without power nationwide.

Extreme cold has been one of the most severe elements of the continuing winter storm. While dangerously frigid temperatures have gripped much of the country, the ABC affiliate WDIO reveals that part of Minnesota has faced the harshest conditions. According to the outlet, -63°F wind chills have affected the city of Grand Marais.