Wind Chill
What is happening with the polar vortex in the United States?
A polar vortex is expected to grip the Rockies and Northern Plains regions following severe winter storms that pummeled the eastern United States over the weekend. The harsh weather system has moved westward after causing significant damage in the East, particularly washing out roads in parts of West Virginia. This extreme weather pattern represents a continuation of dangerous winter conditions affecting different parts of the country in succession.
Watch clip answer (00:13m)
WION
01:04 - 01:18
How is the winter storm affecting the Eastern Seaboard and surrounding regions?
The winter storm is severely impacting the Eastern Seaboard with a dangerous cold weather system that has sent temperatures tumbling across multiple regions including the Central Plains and as far south as the Gulf Coast. The National Weather Service has issued warnings about the unsafe conditions created by this arctic air system. The storm has caused significant power outages with more than 50,000 customers still without electricity in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, despite power being restored to thousands of homes already. This widespread power loss during extreme cold temperatures poses serious safety concerns for affected communities.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)WION
01:58 - 02:20
What is the current impact of the winter storms affecting the central and eastern United States?
The winter storms ravaging the central and eastern United States have resulted in a death toll of at least 14 people. The severe weather system has brought floods, gale force winds, and dangerously cold temperatures throughout the region. According to the National Weather Service, the storm is carrying arctic air that could create record cold conditions, with wind chills expected to plummet as low as -60°F (-51°C), particularly affecting states like Montana and North Dakota. These extreme conditions pose significant life-threatening risks to residents in the affected areas.
Watch clip answer (00:30m)
WION
00:00 - 00:30
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.
Watch clip answer (00:37m)
CBS News
04:17 - 04:55
How is Texas's energy grid functioning during the current cold weather?
Texas's energy grid is currently operating normally despite the frigid temperatures. The correspondent reports that 'everything looks like it's running just fine.' However, the main concern now is how much the energy will cost consumers. Since Texas is not federally regulated when it comes to energy - described as 'a little bit of the wild west' - high demand during cold weather typically results in high prices. Residents are advised to monitor energy costs and consider adjusting their thermostats when away to save money.
Watch clip answer (00:41m)
CBS News
01:36 - 02:18