Widespread winter storm hits parts of the US

As of 6 January 2025, seven states in the US have declared emergencies following a widespread winter storm which has caused travel disruptions, school closures, and at least five casualties. The storm, which began on 4 January, brought heavy snowfall and extreme cold to the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest regions while also affecting southern states. Nearly 9,000 flights were affected by the storm, and around 190,000 people were left without power. Missouri and Kansas were among the worst hit states, with historic snowfall and sleet causing dangerous driving conditions and leading to hundreds of crashes.

This Copernicus Sentinel-3 image, acquired on 6 January 2025, shows parts of Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska covered in snow in the aftermath of the storm.

Open data from the Copernicus Sentinel satellites helps to monitor snowfall and other environmental conditions around the world. This information supports authorities in making evidence-based decisions to help keep affected communities safer.