A massive winter storm sweeping across much of the United States has claimed the lives of at least 30 people and plunged more than half a million homes and businesses into darkness as snow, ice and frigid temperatures battered regions from the South to New England. 

The powerful system brought heavy snow accumulations  exceeding 20 inches in parts of Connecticut and Massachusetts  and widespread ice that snapped power lines and made roads treacherous. Meteorologists warn that life threatening cold is set to linger, with parts of the country expected to stay below freezing into next week.

Emergency crews continue long hours of work restoring electricity to affected communities while authorities urge residents to stay cautious amid hazardous conditions.

 Travel disruptions remain widespread after thousands of flights were cancelled and many schools and services shut down. Officials have opened warming centres in some areas and stressed that recovery will be slow as crews battle the bitter cold and ice-covered infrastructure.