- Nov 29, 2003
- 18,050
- 23,855
Myth-Yes, Hurricanes kill 10x more people than snow storms!
An average of about 30 to 120 direct and indirect deaths are officially recorded each year in the United States due to winter storms, extreme cold, and snow-related hazards, though actual numbers vary heavily depending on major seasonal events (such as the historic 2026 and 2021 winter storms where tolls surpassed 100+ deaths)
Official government estimates record an average of about 24 to 47 direct deaths per storm or year from U.S. hurricanes, though recent scientific research reveals the true death toll is much higher when including long-term and indirect effects.
Just earlier this year-
As of Sunday, CBS News has confirmed at least 100 deaths directly caused by storm conditions or weather-related accidents, with officials in numerous states reporting about two dozen additional deaths that appear to be related to the winter weather.
Dozens confirmed dead as extreme cold continues to grip large part of U.S.
The death toll continues to rise from a massive winter storm that left an ongoing spell of freezing weather in its wake.

