Massive Storm System Causes Chaos in Southern U.S.

A massive storm system stretching from Iowa to Texas has caused widespread destruction and power outages across the southern United States, with high winds reaching up to 78 mph resulting in more than 400,000 outages, particularly affecting the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The severe weather has led to flight cancellations at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, overturned vehicles, and structural damage in several counties. The National Weather Service issued warnings for blizzards in the Plains and severe storms across the South, predicting damaging gusts, hail, and potential tornadoes. In response, Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans were adjusted to conclude before the storms intensified. The storms have also tested the capacities of the National Weather Service following recent layoffs, raising concerns about the agency's ability to provide essential forecasts and warnings.