Historic Winter Storm Claims 11 Lives Across Gulf Coast

GULF COAST, U.S. — A historic winter storm swept across the Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida this week, claiming at least 11 lives, shattering snowfall records, and crippling transportation networks. The storm, which brought unprecedented snowfall and freezing temperatures, has left communities reeling as they brace for continued extreme cold.

In Dale County, Alabama, one person died in a house fire after using a stove for warmth, while another was killed in a car accident, according to the local coroner. Georgia reported one death from hypothermia, and two fatalities occurred in Austin, Texas, due to the cold. Southwest of San Antonio, five people died in a multi-vehicle crash involving a tractor-trailer on icy roads, the Texas Department of Safety confirmed. In Moncks Corner, South Carolina, a 71-year-old man died while shoveling snow, the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office reported.

The storm set multiple snowfall records across the region. Florida experienced its most significant snowfall on record, with 9.8 inches in Milton and 8.9 inches in Pensacola. Texas issued its first-ever blizzard warning, with Beaumont recording 5.2 inches of snow. Mobile, Alabama, saw 7.5 inches, while Baton Rouge, Louisiana, recorded 7.6 inches. New Orleans received 8 inches of snow, the most since 1895.

An extreme cold warning remains in effect Thursday morning from Mississippi to the Florida Panhandle, with temperatures plunging as low as 12 degrees in some areas. Louisiana is experiencing its coldest temperatures in over a century, according to state climatologist Jay Grymes. Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Joe Donahue urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, warning of lingering icy conditions.

While many areas will see temperatures rise to the 50s and 60s by Sunday, the immediate threat of freezing conditions persists. The storm’s aftermath has left airports closed, roads impassable, and communities struggling to recover from one of the most severe winter events in recent history.