A major cross-country storm is moving east, bringing thunderstorms to the South from Texas to New Orleans on Mardi Gras Day before heading to the East Coast on Wednesday.

A powerful storm is moving across the country and spawning multiple fires and severe thunderstorms with hurricane-force wind gusts and tornadoes that are knocking out power and causing damage Tuesday.

The celebrations this year were dampened due to weather concerns, but people still came out in New Orleans to party.

Forecasters warn of intense storms that could unleash damaging winds, large hail and tornadoes in parts of Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi on Tuesday.

The winter storm could impact up to 170 million people across more than 20 states from the southern Plains to the Midwest and East, AccuWeather said.

Asheville Mardi Gras parade route, parking, post-parade royalty procession, parties and more things to know for the March 2 event.

Forecasts also predicted dust storms in the southwest, tornadoes in the South and blizzard conditions in the Central Plains, and were forcing forcing some changes to Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

Thousands of revelers in outlandish costumes are filling the streets of New Orleans as the city celebrates Mardi Gras Day despite the threat of storms.

Mardi Gras gives people the opportunity to celebrate before the Lenten season, where people become more disciplined and give up habits for 40 days.