A Cold Blast Grips the Southern US, Threatening Record Snowfall and Energy Grids
A frigid cold front is enveloping the Southern US, bringing the potential for record-breaking snowfall to major cities like New Orleans and Houston. Extreme cold warnings extend from North Dakota to West Texas, posing risks to oil and natural gas production as well as electricity grids.
Record-Breaking Snowfall Forecast
The National Weather Service predicts snow to begin falling in Houston late Monday, with accumulations of up to 4 inches possible by Tuesday, which would set a January record. New Orleans is expected to receive up to 5 inches, an all-time high for the region, while Baton Rouge may see 7 inches.
Extreme Cold Warning and Energy Concerns
The snow will be followed by frigid temperatures, potentially disrupting oil and natural gas production by freezing water in wells and pipelines. The Texas grid is under a weather watch for Monday and Tuesday, indicating high electricity demand due to the cold. Peak electricity demand is projected to reach 77.5 gigawatts on Tuesday morning, driving up prices.
Grid Warnings and Flight Cancellations
PJM Interconnection, which operates the largest US grid, has issued a low voltage alert for the region through Thursday. Demand is expected to climb to 144 gigawatts, surpassing the decade-long record. Amtrak has canceled several trains across the US West and South, while FlightAware reported over 5,000 flight delays and cancellations as of Monday evening.
Storm Path and Timeline
The snow is expected to cross Texas late Monday, enter Louisiana overnight, and reach Mississippi and Alabama by Tuesday. It will extend to the North Carolina coast and potentially southern Virginia by midweek before moving out to sea.