A historic winter storm, termed a once-in-a-generation event, is impacting over 55 million people across the Gulf Coast and eastern U.S., resulting in record-breaking snowfall, blizzard warnings, and extreme cold. Louisiana saw snowfalls reach up to 10.5 inches, breaking historical records. States of emergency have been declared in multiple areas including Louisiana and Texas. The storm has disrupted travel with nearly 2,000 flight cancellations, while cold wind chills are plunging temperatures into dangerous lows across sections of the southern U.S. Emergency officials are urging residents to take precautions against the harsh weather.