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16 States Under Flood Warnings as Death Toll Climbs. 'Newsweek' reports that flood warnings have ben issued for 16 states as heavy rain continues to worsen conditions that have already claimed the lives of two people. The extreme amount of rain and consequent flooding comes directly after an arctic blast hit much of the nation with subzero temperatures. According to the Associated Press, extreme winter weather has already killed at least 72 people in the U.S. in January alone. A majority of the deaths were attributed to hypothermia and road accidents. On January 26, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a warning to drivers, stressing that most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. "Flooding is occurring or is imminent. Do not attempt to cross water covered bridges, dips, or low water crossings. Never try to cross a flowing stream, even a small one, on foot." National Weather Service warning, via 'Newsweek'. In the South, downpours have dropped nearly a foot of rain on one Texas city over the course of just 72 hours. Louisiana and Mississippi are also facing extreme flooding following heavy rainfall. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for both San Diego County and Ventura County following torrential rains. Flood warnings are currently in place for , Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee and Texas. THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT