Nearly 90 weather-related deaths have been reported in the United States as the country grapples with the aftermath of relentless winter storms. Tennessee and Oregon have been hit the hardest, with 25 and 16 fatalities respectively. These states remain under a state of emergency due to severe ice storms.

The death toll across the country now stands at 89, according to CBS, the BBC's US partner. Reports of fatalities have also emerged from Illinois, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Washington, Kentucky, Wisconsin, New York, New Jersey, and other areas affected by the adverse weather conditions.

The tragic incident in Portland, Oregon last Wednesday saw three people lose their lives when a power line, dislodged by powerful winds, fell and struck their vehicle. Miraculously, a baby who was also in the car survived. Investigations are ongoing into other deaths, including a five-car crash in Kentucky that claimed one life and a series of unfortunate events in Illinois resulting in four deaths.

Homeless individuals have borne the brunt of the extreme weather, with five deaths occurring in just four days in Seattle. As the freezing conditions persist, officials in Mississippi have issued warnings for drivers to venture out only when necessary and to remain cautious of black ice on the roads. Additionally, colleges and universities in the state have delayed the return of students from their winter break due to the hazardous conditions.

Mississippi officials are also investigating rumors of potential storm-related water shortages, which led residents to store water in their bathtubs. This action caused a temporary drop in water pressure and left thousands of residents in Jackson, the state's capital, without access to running water. The city has a history of water issues.

Efforts to restore electricity in affected areas have made progress, but tens of thousands of people across the country still remain without power. Currently, nearly 10,000 individuals are without power in Oregon, 8,000 in North Carolina, 7,000 in California, and 4,300 in Kentucky.

The icy conditions and chilling winds are expected to persist throughout the beginning of the week. However, meteorologists predict that a thaw is on the horizon, bringing warm air and rain. This, in turn, raises concerns about potential flooding in parts of the Midwest and the northeastern United States.

As the US battles the aftermath of these devastating winter storms, an amber warning for wind has been issued by the Met Office, indicating turbulent weather conditions. Wales has already experienced gusts of up to 90mph as Storm Isha wreaks havoc, resulting in homes without power and disruptions to numerous air and sea journeys. In Belfast, one person has been injured by falling debris.

The Met Office has cautioned the public about the impending storm and has urged people to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.