CNN 5 Things 'Snowicane,' New Details on ‘El Mencho’ Operation, Nick Reiner Arraignment and more
Feb 23, 2026
Blizzard conditions slam the Northeast with heavy snow and hurricane-force gusts. Inside a precision military operation that killed Mexico's most-wanted cartel leader. A new poll shows slipping presidential approval ahead of the State of the Union. Courtroom developments in a high-profile murder arraignment. Widespread shortages of a key menopause treatment.
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Snowicane Packs Hurricane Winds And Feet Of Snow
- A single storm can combine hurricane-force winds with feet of snow, creating a 'snowicane' that multiplies impacts.
- Brandon Miller reports gusts over 50 mph across 700 miles and snowfall rates of 2–3 inches per hour with some areas topping two feet.
Tourists Flee Violence During El Mencho Operation
- American tourists witnessed cartel violence in Puerto Vallarta after the military operation that killed El Mencho disrupted the city.
- Scott Posokin described seeing an overturned bus, people running, cars set on fire, and fleeing to a snorkeling trip for safety.
El Mencho Located Via Romantic Partner Visit
- Mexican military tracked Nemesio 'El Mencho' by identifying a romantic partner's visit to pinpoint his location.
- Officials say the targeted operation killed eight cartel members during the raid.