At least 40 deaths have been attributed to the cold wave that has enveloped the country

The cold continues to threaten the country. In the last five days, according to Telemundo, more than 20 deaths have been linked to the winter storm that is hitting the country, furthermore, it is expected that the weather alert will remain in place for citizens over the weekend.

"Heavy mountain snows for the Northwest/Rockies; additional ice over the Columbia Basin. Bands of heavy lake-effect snow continue for the Great Lakes with hazardous snow across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic by Friday," the National Weather Service explained.

Likewise, a CNN count detailed that so far this year at least 40 deaths related to situations caused by the weather have been recorded. The situation has led several states to suspend classes and ask citizens not to leave their residences.

"Despite light snowfall, the combination of snow and high winds could make travel difficult. More cancellations and delays are also possible, especially after schools and government offices were closed by the equally impactful storm earlier in the week," CNN noted.