freezing rain
What is the current death toll from recent severe weather in Kentucky?
According to Governor Andy Beshear, the death toll in Kentucky has reached at least 14 people as a result of recent severe weather events, including flooding and a snowstorm. This represents an increase of two new deaths since Monday's previous update. The situation remains critical as the state continues to deal with the aftermath of these weather events. Governor Beshear is urging residents without power to seek warmth at emergency shelters, as freezing temperatures pose additional hazards while emergency crews work to restore electricity across affected areas.
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CBS News
00:24 - 00:32
What is the current situation in Kentucky following the weekend's severe weather events?
Kentucky is facing a dire emergency with at least 14 fatalities reported after being hit by weekend flooding followed by a snowstorm. State officials have issued urgent warnings for residents without power to seek warmth as temperatures drop below freezing across the state. The combination of consecutive severe weather events has created dangerous conditions, particularly for those without electricity. Officials are especially concerned about vulnerable populations as the freezing temperatures compound the challenges already created by flooding.
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CBS News
00:00 - 00:15
What impact is the severe winter storm having across the United States?
The severe winter storm is causing widespread disruption across the United States, with the death toll reaching at least 14 people. The National Weather Service has warned about dangerously low temperatures affecting multiple regions, from the Central Plains and Eastern Seaboard to as far south as the Gulf Coast. Power infrastructure has been severely impacted, with more than 50,000 customers still without electricity in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, despite some restoration efforts. As arctic air continues to move southward, authorities are concerned about the potential for additional casualties and are emphasizing the urgent need for adequate shelter during these extreme weather conditions.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)
WION
01:58 - 02:20
How long will the extreme cold temperatures affecting millions of Americans last?
The extreme cold temperatures affecting millions of Americans are severe enough to potentially break records in areas like Wichita, Kansas City, and Oklahoma City, with temperatures 40 degrees or more below average. However, there are promising changes on the horizon. According to the weather specialist, when looking at the forecast for the next six to ten days, changes are expected that should bring relief from these frigid conditions. The current polar vortex and winter weather system won't be a permanent fixture.
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CBS News
04:17 - 04:55
How is the polar vortex affecting middle America and the eastern United States?
The polar vortex is bringing freezing conditions with ice, cold temperatures, and snow across middle America and extending into the eastern United States. Millions of Americans from Minneapolis to Dallas are experiencing record low temperatures, with Dallas seeing temperatures as low as 19°F and wind chills making it feel like 2°F. Residents are bundling up and navigating slick, icy roads, though many are choosing to stay home altogether. The severe weather is causing school closures and raising concerns about Texas's energy grid due to unusually high demand. This significant weather event is uncharacteristic for February and is expected to continue with more cold spells predicted.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)
CBS News
00:00 - 00:25
How does this polar vortex impact Americans throughout the states?
The polar vortex is causing widespread disruption across the U.S., with school cancellations, work disruptions, and rising electric bills. Temperatures have plunged to extreme levels, including a feels-like temperature of -64°F in Montana, with many areas experiencing 30-40 degrees below normal temperatures for February. This cold surge is sweeping from the Dakotas all the way to the Mexico border, affecting millions of Americans simultaneously. The weather system is accompanied by a winter storm bringing heavy rain to southern states, with cities from Oklahoma to New York experiencing unusually brutal cold conditions during what meteorologists emphasize is an abnormal weather pattern for this time of year.
Watch clip answer (01:45m)
CBS News
02:43 - 04:28