A powerful winter storm is sweeping across the United States. It has caused tornadoes to spawn in the southern states and coating neighbouring states in snow. At least three people have reportedly died as a result.
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The cold front has brought blizzard-like conditions across four states, forcing about 500,000 people under blizzard warnings. This has been accompanied by heavy snowfall and powerful winds. Millions across the States are under less severe weather alerts.
Storm casualties and injuries
A 56-year-old woman was found dead outside her home. The Louisiana Department of Health said she died after a tornado ripped her home apart.
In the town of Farmerville, a tornado landing left about 25 people injured.
In Louisiana, a boy and his mother was killed when their homes was destroyed by tornado. The body of eight-year-old Nikolus Little was found in an area half a mile from the family home. The mother of the boy, Yoshiko A Smith (30) was found one street away from the home, under a pile of rubble.
At least 18 tornadoes landed in Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas and Mississippi on Tuesday. And officials reported more on Wednesday – leading Louisiana’s to undergo a state of emergency.
The National Weather Service said the wintry conditions will batter the upper Midwest and north-eastern parts of the US later in the week. Parts of California have also been hit by powerful winds and snow.
The storm has spilled into Canada. Strong winds and heavy snow has flooded the country;s regions.