In brief
Record-low temperatures have persisted across the eastern United States, resulting in the collapse of homes in North Carolina, significant power outages affecting over 70,000 in Tennessee, and severe impacts on Florida's agriculture. As various regions continue to dig out from blizzards, authorities maintain a freeze warning in Florida and Georgia.
RALEIGH, N.C. — The eastern United States is severely affected by relentless winter storms, leading to collapsed homes and prolonged power outages. Residents across North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida are grappling with harsh conditions as sub-zero temperatures sweep through the region.
In North Carolina, four homes succumbed to icy winds on the Outer Banks and collapsed into the ocean over the weekend. The National Park Service reported the devastating images, which show homes being eroded away as the landscape changes due to rising sea levels and severe weather.
Meanwhile, farmers in Florida are anxiously awaiting the thawing of their plants, which were coated in ice intended to protect them from deeper cold. The unexpected freezing temperatures coincided with peak shipping season for fern growers, leading to financial headaches for many.
In Tennessee, Nashville Electric Service is facing backlash after over 20,000 residents entered their second week without power after a severe ice storm. Mayor Freddie O'Connell has called for a review of the utility's storm preparedness efforts.
As towns continue to dig out from over a foot of snow from recent snowfall, emergency services urge caution as freezing temperatures extend across parts of the South.
