Winter storm impacts millions

Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) continues to assess needs in the wake of a massive winter storm on Jan. 24-25 that left the northeastern U.S. covered in heavy snow while ice accumulation left 800,000 without power in the south.

MDS is ensuring volunteers are safe, and praying for all who might endure damage and hardship in the coming days as frigid temperatures set in.

The weather has been blamed for the deaths of at least 16 people: three in Pennsylvania, three in Tennessee, three in Louisiana, two in Texas, two in Mississippi, one in Kansas, one in Massachusetts and one in Arkansas, according to local officials.

More than 100 million people were under winter storm warnings from New Mexico to Maine as the system traversed nearly two-thirds of the country. Sub-zero lows are expected in many of the same areas through the coming days.

The National Weather Service warned of widespread, prolonged travel disruptions due to “catastrophic ice accumulation” from the lower Mississippi Valley to the Mid-Atlantic.

Federal emergency disaster declarations have already been approved for a dozen states.

MDS Volunteers headed to western North Carolina to build driveway bridges and homes postponed their MDS service until conditions are safe. Volunteers in Spartanburg, South Carolina delayed their travels so that they would not be moving on or off the MDS site during the storm.

MDS U.S. Executive Director Kevin King emphasized the importance of preparedness and community care. “Practicing disaster preparedness helps ensure we can respond safely and effectively,” he said. “We encourage people to check on neighbors, churches, and loved ones, and we join in prayer for all who may experience hardship. MDS will continue monitoring the situation and responding as needs emerge.”