Winter Storms
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)
WION
00:00 - 00:18
Which states are affected by flood warnings and winter weather advisories?
Flood warnings have been extended across most of Kentucky and portions of Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Virginia, and Ohio, among others. These warnings come amid severe flooding that has caused significant damage and casualties in the region, with Kentucky being particularly hard hit. Meanwhile, Nebraska is under a winter weather advisory as part of a broader pattern of harsh winter conditions. The National Weather Service has also issued similar advisories for other states including Michigan, with a polar vortex bringing severe cold to the Rockies and Northern Plains regions.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)WION
01:08 - 01:22
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)WION
00:43 - 00:57
Where have avalanche warnings been issued across the United States?
Avalanche warnings have been issued across multiple regions of the United States due to severe winter weather conditions. In the Rocky Mountains, numerous areas are under high danger ratings, particularly in portions of Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming where conditions are especially hazardous. Additionally, the Mount Washington Avalanche Center has issued a specific avalanche warning for areas of the White Mountains in New Hampshire. These widespread warnings indicate significant risk across both western and eastern mountain ranges as winter weather intensifies.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)WION
01:30 - 01:46
What is the current situation of the flooding crisis in Kentucky?
Kentucky is facing a severe flooding crisis with the death toll having risen to 12 people. The situation has been so dire that at least 1,000 individuals stranded by floodwaters have required rescue operations. The emergency extends beyond Kentucky, with flood warnings issued across most of the state and into neighboring regions including Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Virginia, and Ohio. This widespread severe weather event has created dangerous conditions across multiple states, compounding the challenges following a polar vortex affecting parts of the US.
Watch clip answer (00:20m)
WION
00:57 - 01:18
What warning was issued for New Hampshire's White Mountains?
The Mount Washington Avalanche Center issued an avalanche warning for areas of the White Mountains in New Hampshire. This critical warning comes amid a harsh polar vortex gripping the United States, creating extreme weather conditions across multiple regions. The warning specifically targets avalanche risks in the White Mountains, alerting residents and visitors to potentially dangerous snow conditions in this area of New Hampshire.
Watch clip answer (00:06m)WION
01:39 - 01:46