US Gripped by Arctic Blast: Record Cold, Snow, and Deaths
The US is currently enveloped in a severe and widespread arctic blast, leading to unprecedented cold temperatures and dangerous weather conditions across a large region, including the southern and eastern parts of the country. Here's a summary of the current developments:
Iowa Experiences Historic Cold: During the Iowa caucuses on Monday, temperatures plummeted to record lows. In Des Moines, the temperature peaked at a mere one degree Fahrenheit, 25 to 30 degrees below the usual averages for the area. The intense wind chills created a risk of frostbite within just 10 minutes.
Widespread Freezing Across the US: Nearly 80% of the US, stretching from Oregon to Mississippi, is grappling with sub-zero temperatures. More than 140 daily cold records are at risk of being shattered. Cities like Memphis, Dallas, and Nashville are facing over 72 consecutive hours of freezing conditions.
Deadly Storms Cause Fatalities: The harsh weather has unfortunately led to at least five deaths across Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Oregon, including weather-related vehicle crashes and other storm-related incidents.
Hazardous Travel Conditions: A mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain has rendered travel conditions perilous in the southern and central US. There have been fatal and injurious road accidents in Arkansas and Mississippi.
Extreme Wind Chills Affecting Millions: Over 100 million people in the US are under wind chill alerts, spanning from the Canadian border to Mexico. In places like South Dakota, wind chills could plummet to minus 45 degrees, causing rapid onset of frostbite.
Concerns Over Texas Power Grid: ERCOT, which manages most of Texas's electric load, is urging residents to conserve energy to prevent strain on the state's vulnerable power grid.
Potential Snowfall in Major Cities: Cities such as Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City, which haven't seen significant snowfall in over 700 days, are expecting 1 to 3 inches of snow from this storm.
Flight Disruptions: Over 3,100 flights within, into, or out of the US were canceled on Monday, with thousands more expected to be delayed.
School Closures in Several States: States including Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia have announced school closures due to the extreme weather conditions.
This arctic blast is setting temperature records and significantly impacting travel, energy consumption, and daily life across a large swath of the nation.