Storm Scope and Warning Coverage: massive winter system dumped sleet, freezing rain and snow across most of the United States from New Mexico to New England, affecting roughly 140 million people under winter storm warnings between Jan. 21 and Jan. 25, 2026[1][2]. Temperatures plunged below zero in many regions, creating hazardous conditions that persisted for several days. The storm’s reach included major metros such as New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Nashville, and Dallas, illustrating its nationwide impact.

Power Outages and Infrastructure Damage: Ice accumulation on power lines caused widespread outages, leaving hundreds of thousands of residents—particularly in the Southeast—without electricity[1]. Icicles draped on lines in Tucker, Georgia, exemplified the damage to the grid, prompting emergency crews to respond. The outages compounded travel and daily‑life disruptions as households struggled to stay warm.

Transportation Disruptions Nationwide: Snow and ice forced road closures, hazardous bridge conditions, and significant flight delays across the country[1][2]. In New York, the Brooklyn Bridge was snow‑covered, while Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway required plowing. Major airports such as Nashville International and Dallas Love Field operated de‑icing procedures, yet passengers faced long walks on salt‑slicked sidewalks and delayed departures.

Public Response and Visual Documentation: Residents turned frozen streets into impromptu playgrounds, sledding on museum steps and jogging in parks, while others used torches to thaw frozen vehicle doors[1][2]. Retail shelves were emptied as shoppers stockpiled essentials ahead of the storm[2]. AP photo editors compiled a gallery of images from dozens of cities, providing a visual record of the storm’s intensity and the varied ways communities coped[1][2].