The Filipino community in the United States is advised to monitor and make necessary preparations as a powerful snowstorm sweeps through the central and eastern areas.
The fearsome winter storm continued to pummel parts of the United States with blizzard conditions Saturday evening (Sunday, Manila time) after powerful Arctic winds left over a million customers without power earlier in the day and caused Christmas travel nightmares.
At least 17 weather-related deaths have been confirmed across eight states as heavy snow, howling winds and dangerously frigid temperatures kept much of the nation, including the normally temperate south, in a frozen grip for a third straight day.
“The Philippine Embassy in Washington DC advises Filipino communities on the massive winter storm to monitor the weather, undertake all necessary preparations, and heed the warnings of local officials,” the Embassy said in an advisory over the weekend.
The National Weather Service warned the wind chill would cover nearly half of the US population as a “once-in-a-generation” storm brings snow, wind, ice, and frigid temperatures through the holiday weekend.
Blizzard conditions could reduce visibility to zero and the public is advised to refrain from going out unless absolutely necessary.
For emergencies requiring Embassy assistance, distressed members of the Filipino community are urged to contact (202) 368-2767 or (202) 769-8049.
