Record Temperatures
How long will the extreme cold temperatures last, and what changes are expected in the coming days?
The extreme cold temperatures affecting regions like Wichita, Kansas City, and Oklahoma City are showing signs of change in the next 6-10 days. According to the Climate Prediction Center, temperatures will return to normal along the East Coast, with areas from the Dakotas down to Texas expected to be above normal. This marks a significant shift from current conditions where temperatures are running as much as 40 degrees below normal, potentially breaking records for cold highs. Meanwhile, Miami is predicted to cool down slightly. This warming trend indicates the polar vortex's grip will loosen, bringing relief to the millions currently affected by the unusual winter weather.
Watch clip answer (00:32m)
CBS News
04:38 - 05:10
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
What severe weather conditions are affecting millions of Americans according to meteorologist Jess?
Millions of Americans are experiencing dual weather threats: extreme chilly temperatures across much of the country and a significant winter storm. This storm has particularly impacted areas from Tennessee up through Kentucky, causing extreme flooding conditions. The cold weather appears to be part of a polar vortex system extending from the Dakotas to Texas, creating hazardous conditions that have disrupted daily life with school cancellations and transportation difficulties. These severe weather patterns have broken temperature records and raised concerns about rising energy costs as communities struggle with the widespread winter weather event.
Watch clip answer (00:10m)
CBS News
04:17 - 04:28
How does the polar vortex impact Americans throughout the states?
The polar vortex has widespread impacts on Americans, disrupting daily life through school cancellations and work disruptions across the country. Particularly concerning are the anticipated spikes in electric bills due to extreme heating needs during record-breaking temperatures, with some areas experiencing feels-like temperatures of negative 64 degrees in Montana. The meteorologist emphasizes that these temperatures are abnormal for this time of year, creating unusual challenges for residents. The severe cold has transformed routine activities into potential hazards, affecting millions of Americans who must cope with this extraordinary winter weather event.
Watch clip answer (00:21m)CBS News
02:43 - 03:04
How is Rio de Janeiro's extreme heat affecting local events and activities?
Rio's unprecedented heatwave is significantly disrupting normal activities across the city. Residents flocked to beaches to cool off during the sizzling weekend, while a leading Samba School was forced to cancel its parade rehearsal on Copacabana beach due to extreme temperatures reportedly exceeding 44 degrees Celsius. The heatwave is affecting both cultural events and sports, with tennis stars facing challenging conditions both on and off the court. This extreme weather highlights how climate change is impacting daily life and traditional celebrations in Brazil's cultural capital.
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WION
01:02 - 01:15
How is the heat wave in Rio de Janeiro affecting Carnival preparations?
The heat wave struck Rio de Janeiro less than two weeks before Carnival, directly impacting construction workers who are currently assembling the festival's installations. Despite the extreme temperatures, Rio's mayor Eduardo confirmed that the city would not cancel any Carnival events, which attract millions of tourists and serve as a major revenue source for the city. The timing of this extreme weather has raised concerns about the smooth running of the festival, though officials appear determined to proceed with this economically significant celebration.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)WION
02:21 - 02:43