Severe Weather Alerts
What is causing the severe winter storms across multiple states in the US?
The severe winter storms affecting multiple US states are being caused by a polar vortex that was expected to grip the Rockies and Northern Plains. This weather system moved westward after initially pummeling the eastern US over the weekend, bringing arctic air temperatures and dangerous conditions. The impact has been severe, with at least 14 fatalities reported nationwide, including one death in West Virginia and another in Atlanta, Georgia. The storms have washed out roads in parts of West Virginia and created hazardous conditions across several states, prompting local officials to issue safety advisories as dangerous wind chills continue to affect the impacted regions.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)
WION
01:04 - 01:29
What is the scale of the winter weather emergency currently affecting the United States?
The winter weather emergency is currently affecting 59 million people who remain under winter alerts spanning from Nebraska to North Carolina. The severe storm system is bringing heavy snow to multiple states, particularly impacting Kentucky. Officials are warning travelers about potential travel disruptions, noting that delays and cancellations could persist for days as the weather system moves through these regions. The widespread nature of these winter alerts indicates a significant weather event affecting a large portion of the eastern United States.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)
NBC News
04:30 - 04:48
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 cold is it in Dallas during the polar vortex?
Dallas is experiencing extreme cold conditions with temperatures at approximately 19 degrees Fahrenheit, but the wind chill makes it feel like just 2 degrees. The severity of this cold snap is highlighted by CBS News correspondent Omar Villafranca, who points out that it's actually warmer in Reykjavik, Iceland and Anchorage, Alaska than in Dallas, Texas. This unusual weather pattern is part of a polar vortex affecting multiple states, creating hazardous conditions and raising concerns about energy consumption and rising electric bills across the affected regions.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)CBS News
00:34 - 00:50
How severe is the cold weather in Dallas due to the polar vortex?
Dallas is experiencing extreme cold with temperatures at roughly 19 degrees but feeling like 2 degrees due to wind chill. The reporter notes it's colder in Dallas than in Reykjavik, Iceland and Anchorage, Alaska. This cold snap has moved down from the north, affecting a large region from Wyoming to Oklahoma with heavy snowfall. The frigid conditions are impacting roads and travel, with high winds creating particular challenges for high-profile vehicles like 18-wheelers, though Texas highways are currently moving without major accidents.
Watch clip answer (00:52m)
CBS News
00:34 - 01:27
How does Texas's deregulated energy system affect costs during high-demand periods like winter storms?
Texas operates under a non-federally regulated energy system that functions like the 'wild west.' When demand rises during extreme cold, prices increase proportionally. While the grid is currently running fine during this winter storm, residents should monitor energy costs carefully. Many Texans raise their home thermostats while away at work to save money, as maintaining very warm temperatures can result in extremely high electric or gas bills at month's end. This pricing fluctuation is unique to Texas's deregulated market, where high demand directly translates to higher consumer costs.
Watch clip answer (00:48m)CBS News
01:36 - 02:25