Two new deaths have been recorded in connection with the storm that chilled much of the United States around Christmas time, bringing the death toll from this historic blizzard to at least 61 dead, authorities announced Thursday.
Both deaths occurred in Erie County, New York, where the city of Buffalo is located. At least 39 people have died there and the number is likely to rise further, county official Mark Poloncarz said at a news conference.
fear of flooding
Among them, four were found in cars, 11 in houses and 17 outside, he said. With warmer temperatures, authorities feared that the rapid melting of snow could cause flooding.
“Fortunately, it appears that flooding will be minimal. There is a possibility of flooding, but it seems that it will not be serious,” said Poloncarz.
Ultimately, power was restored to everyone in the county, he added. The Buffalo area, although accustomed to harsh winters, was hit hard by the storm.
The authorities in the face of criticism
Heavy snowfall, icy wind, sudden drop in temperatures… The bad weather wreaked havoc, to the point that the rescue teams themselves were stranded.
Local authorities must now respond to critics, who question their handling of the crisis. The cold was felt to varying degrees across much of the country, as far as Texas and Florida, states not used to such weather conditions.
The storm also caused significant disruption to airports, with thousands of flight cancellations.
Source: BFM TV
