How is the polar vortex affecting Americans across the country?

The polar vortex is creating stark weather contrasts across the United States, with millions of Americans experiencing severe winter conditions. The phenomenon has brought heavy snowfall to some regions while causing flooding in others, putting communities from Texas to the Dakotas under cold weather warnings. Residents are adapting to these challenging conditions in various ways - using kayaks to access supplies where flooding has occurred and seeking refuge in warming centers when left without power. The contrast between sunshine in some areas and snow in others highlights the widespread impact of this extreme weather event gripping much of the nation.