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Winter Storms Leave Thousands Without Power

Crews across the country worked around the clock to try and bring back power for the half a million or so customers currently without electricity.
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It might not be a White Christmas, but a dark one, for thousands in the U.S. on Wednesday.

Following a weekend of severe weather, crews across the country worked around the clock to try and bring back power for the half a million or so customers currently without electricity. (Via NBC

At least 24 deaths have been tied to the storm since a mix of unseasonably warm temperatures, ice storms and rare December tornadoes ripped through the country. While the brunt of the storms may be over, states are dealing with the aftermath. (Via WWJ-TV, MSNBC)

The Detroit Free Press reports power in Michigan may not be restored until Thursday. More than 230,000 customers — about 50,000 in the Detroit area — were without power Tuesday night.

WEVI reported hotels across Flint, Michigan are full — as families are pouring in looking for somewhere warm to stay.

Maine was hard hit, too. Authorities there reduced the speed limit along stretches of the interstate as downed trees, untreated and icy roads were to blame for several accidents Tuesday. (Via WCSH

The Bangor Daily Newsreports nearly 70,000 people lost power. Emergency shelters stayed open for those without heat.

In New York, Governor Andrew Cuomo activated the state’s Emergency Operations Center. About 25,000 were without power in the northern parts of the state. (Via WABC)

And temperatures dropped below zero in parts of Canada. USA Today reports carbon monoxide poisoning killed five people who were using generators or barbecue pits to stay warm.

AccuWeatherreports the Dakotas through the Great Lakes will see snow showers Wednesday.