A severe winter storm has left some people trapped in cars for more than two days during what was “probably” the worst storm of their lifetime.
At least 28 people have reportedly died in western New York state, most in Buffalo.
Meteorologists warn that up to nine more inches (23cm) of snow are expected in parts of the state on Tuesday
Reacting to the incident, US President Joe Biden has approved an emergency declaration allowing federal support for New York State. “My heart is with those who lost loved ones this holiday weekend,” he tweeted.
State Governor Kathy Hochul, a native of Buffalo, described the storm as “the blizzard of the century”.
“It is (like)going to a war zone, and the vehicles along the sides of the roads are shocking.”
She added that many emergency vehicles had been unable to reach worst-hit areas or had got stuck in snow themselves.
READ ALSO: Bolanle Raheem: Buhari Condemns Killing Of Lagos Lawyer, Promises Justice
New York state officials said emergency personnel was going from car to car searching for survivors of the storm, and finding bodies in cars and snow banks.
Others have reportedly died from cardiac arrest while ploughing snow.
