National Weather Service
What severe weather conditions are currently affecting the southern United States?
The southern United States is currently experiencing extreme cold warnings and watches issued by the National Weather Service, particularly affecting the Texas-Mexico border region. This polar air mass has created hazardous conditions throughout the area. Simultaneously, severe weather is sweeping across the southern states with significant moisture moving toward the Carolinas. This dual threat of extreme cold and moisture-laden storm systems is creating challenging conditions, potentially leading to hazardous travel and localized flooding in affected communities.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)What extreme weather conditions are currently affecting the US Midsection?
A polar vortex is currently gripping the Rockies and Northern Plains, bringing harsh cold to the US Midsection. The National Weather Service has issued life-threatening cold warnings as wind chills have plummeted to minus 51 degrees Celsius in North Dakota. This extreme cold front follows weekend storms that caused devastating floods in the eastern United States. The severe weather system is impacting at least 11 states, with additional concerns about avalanche risks in the Rocky Mountains as residents in affected areas are urged to take safety precautions.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)What is causing the extreme cold weather in the US this season?
The extreme cold in the US is being caused by the 10th and coldest polar vortex event of this season. Meteorologists have explained that this phenomenon occurs when weather forces in the Arctic push chilly air that normally remains near the North Pole southward into the United States and Europe. This displacement of Arctic air is creating unusually cold conditions across parts of the country, leading to severe temperature drops and dangerous wind chills in affected regions.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)