INDIANA — A historic winter storm has left a trail of devastation across the United States this weekend, killing at least 11 people and leaving more than 800,000 customers in the dark. As the snow tapers off, a second, more dangerous threat is taking hold: a bone-chilling Arctic air mass that officials warn could be life-threatening.
Across the country, the storm’s impact has been staggering. More than 19,000 flights have been canceled since Friday, with Sunday marking the single worst day for air travel disruptions since the COVID-19 pandemic. In at least 15 states, snow has piled up a foot or higher, while crippling ice in the South has decimated power grids in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
Indiana Under Siege: Snow Followed by Deep Freeze
In Central and Southern Indiana, the National Weather Service (NWS) has transitioned from snow alerts to urgent Extreme Cold Warnings. While a Winter Storm Warning remained in effect early Monday morning for accumulations of 9 to 13 inches, the primary concern has shifted to the “dangerously cold” temperatures arriving.
The NWS Indianapolis has issued the following alerts for cities, including Bedford and the surrounding area.
- Cold Weather Advisory: In effect until 7:00 p.m. today for wind chills between -10°F and -20°F.
- Extreme Cold Warning: Begins at 7:00 p.m. tonight through 9:00 a.m. Tuesday. Wind chills are expected to plummet to -27°F.
At these temperatures, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 20 minutes.
National Impact by the Numbers
| Metric | Current Status |
| Fatalities | 11 confirmed (including hypothermia and traffic accidents) |
| Power Outages | 820,000+ homes and businesses (primarily in the South) |
| Flight Cancellations | 19,000+ total; 11,500 on Sunday alone |
| People Under Alert | 90 million under Extreme Cold watches or warnings |
A Lingering Crisis
Meteorologists warn that, unlike typical storms that melt within days, this Arctic mass is stationary.
For those without power, the situation is becoming dire. With over a quarter-inch of ice reported in many areas, infrastructure damage is “devastating,” and repair crews are struggling to navigate slick, hazardous roads.
Safety and Travel Precautions
A Red Travel Warning remains in effect for Lawrence County and several surrounding areas. Local officials and the NWS are urging the following:
- Avoid Travel: Delay all non-essential trips. If you must go out, carry a winter survival kit (flashlight, food, water, and blankets).
- Dress in Layers: Use a hat, face mask, and gloves to cover all exposed skin.
- Protect Pets: Ensure outdoor animals have dry shelter and unfrozen water.
- Check on Neighbors: Reach out to the elderly or those without reliable heating.
Schools across the Midwest and Northeast have canceled classes or moved to remote learning for Monday as the storm, unofficially named Winter Storm Fern by some agencies, continues its grip on the United States.
