Post by : Meena Ariff

A dangerous winter snowstorm caused a huge traffic disaster in the US state of Michigan, where more than 100 vehicles crashed into each other or slid off an interstate highway. The accident happened on Monday when heavy snowfall, strong winds, and icy roads made driving extremely unsafe.

The crash took place on Interstate 196, a major highway located just southwest of the city of Grand Rapids. Because of the scale of the accident, Michigan State Police were forced to close the highway in both directions. Emergency teams worked for hours to clear the wreckage and help injured people.

Police said that many people were hurt in the crash, but thankfully, none of the injuries were believed to be deadly. Even so, the situation was frightening and chaotic, with cars, SUVs, and large trucks smashed together across a long stretch of the highway.

Officials confirmed that more than 30 large trailer trucks were involved in the crash. These heavy vehicles made the clean-up much harder because they blocked several lanes, and some jackknifed or slid into roadside ditches.

Photos and videos shared on social media showed shocking scenes. Vehicles were piled on top of each other, some badly crushed, while others were stuck at strange angles. The highway was fully covered in snow, and visibility was extremely poor.

Many drivers said they could barely see what was happening ahead of them before the crash occurred.

One driver, Pedro Mata Jr, described how terrifying the moment was. He said snow was blowing so hard across the road that he could hardly see the cars in front of him. He was driving slowly, around 32 to 40 kilometers per hour, trying to stay safe.

Mata managed to stop his pickup truck without crashing. To avoid being hit by vehicles sliding behind him, he moved his truck into the middle section of the highway.

“It was very scary,” he said. “I could hear crashes behind me, loud bangs and booms. I could see a little in front of me, but I had no idea what was happening behind.”

His experience was similar to many other drivers caught in the sudden and dangerous conditions.

The Michigan crash is just one example of the damage caused by a powerful winter storm sweeping across the United States. Weather officials warned that many states are facing extreme cold or severe winter weather.

The affected areas stretch from northern Minnesota through Wisconsin, Indiana, and Ohio, and into parts of Pennsylvania and New York. Some regions are dealing with heavy snowfall, while others are struggling with icy roads and dangerously low temperatures.

In some areas, temperatures are expected to drop as low as minus 22 degrees Celsius when wind chill is included. These conditions can be dangerous not only for drivers but also for anyone spending time outdoors.

After the crash, officials urged drivers to slow down and avoid travel unless it is absolutely necessary. They described road conditions as “treacherous,” meaning very risky and unsafe.

Police and emergency workers warned that even experienced drivers can lose control on icy roads. Snow-covered highways can hide black ice, which is nearly invisible but extremely slippery.

Drivers were advised to keep a safe distance from other vehicles, reduce speed, and pull over safely if visibility becomes too poor.

Clearing the highway was a long and difficult task. Tow trucks were brought in to remove damaged vehicles, including large trailers. Ambulances treated injured people at the scene, while others were taken to nearby hospitals.

Snow continued to fall during the clean-up, making the work even harder. The highway was not reopened until officials were confident it was safe for traffic.

The massive crash is a strong reminder of how dangerous winter driving can be. Snowstorms can change road conditions quickly, leaving drivers with little time to react.

Officials said preparation is important. Drivers should check weather forecasts before traveling, carry emergency supplies in their vehicles, and avoid driving during severe weather when possible.

As the winter storm continues to move across the country, authorities are urging people to stay alert, stay warm, and stay safe.

#Global News #Climate #Environment news #World News