Denver, Colorado – A brutal Arctic blast is gripping a large portion of the United States, bringing record-low temperatures, life-threatening wind chills, and hazardous weather conditions. Snow and ice have spread from the South to New England, while a new storm targets the Northwest with dangerous ice. As temperatures plummet and winter storms wreak havoc, here’s what you need to know.
Several major cities, including New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, DC, experienced enough snowfall to end their nearly two-year-long snowless streaks. These cities recorded at least an inch of snow in 24 hours, breaking record-long streaks that had lasted for over 700 days. Record-breaking cold temperatures are also affecting almost 80% of the country, with numerous daily cold records already being set. Temperatures in cities like Memphis, Dallas, and Nashville are expected to remain below freezing for at least 72 consecutive hours.
The Arctic blast has led to dangerous wind chills, with over 120 million people under wind chill alerts from the Canadian border to the Mexican border. The Rockies, Great Plains, and Midwest are experiencing life-threatening sub-zero wind chills, with temperatures dropping below -30 degrees in some areas. The National Weather Service has warned that these wind chills can cause frostbite on exposed skin in just a few minutes, followed by hypothermia.
Tragically, at least five deaths have been reported across several states due to the winter storms, with dangerous wind, ice, and snow causing accidents and hazardous conditions on the roads. The South has already experienced icy road conditions, and the Tennessee Department of Transportation has responded to hundreds of incidents. Travel is being affected across the country, with slippery roads and hazardous conditions making it difficult for commuters and travelers.
As snow and freezing rain continue to sweep across the Northeast, heavy lake effect snowfall is expected downwind of the Great Lakes, causing significant travel disruptions. Buffalo, New York, is under a lake effect snow warning, with heavy snowfall and gusts of up to 40 mph. The Northeast, including New York City and Washington, D.C., has finally received significant snowfall after long stretches without an inch of snow.
In addition to the winter storms in the East, the Pacific Northwest is bracing for another storm after a recent damaging one. An ice storm warning is in place for over 3 million people, including Portland. This system will bring rain and snow to parts of the region, further complicating travel and causing potentially hazardous conditions.
The sub-zero wind chills are a major concern, with dangerously low temperatures anticipated in several states. The National Weather Service has issued warnings about frostbite and hypothermia, urging people to stay indoors if possible. The most susceptible body parts to frostbite are fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. The weather service advises dressing appropriately, covering exposed skin, and having a cold survival kit if travel is necessary.
While temperatures may moderate midweek, a new surge of colder air is expected to arrive later in the week, affecting the northern Plains, Midwest, and Deep South. It is essential for individuals to stay informed, take precautions, and stay safe during this challenging winter weather.