Beginning around Christmas, Arctic temperatures began spreading across the United States. This Arctic storm featured extremely dangerous wind chill and low temperatures. The National Weather Service office in South Dakota released widespread wind chill warnings and advisories across the country. The temperatures are not only reaching record lows, but also setting records durations. The chilly storm is predicted to persist until the beginning of the following week, Monday, January 8.
Due to the lower air pressure, the east coast is expected to be hit with even colder conditions towards the end of the week. The lowest temperature was recorded in Embarrass, Minnesota at negative 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Sioux City, Iowa also set a negative 25 degree record, according to the Weather Channel.
New Year’s Eve in Times Square had the second coldest temperatures recorded. Police Commissioner James O’Neill comments to reporters, “There’s a lot of brave people in New York City and the United States, so I’m sure there’ll be millions of people in Times Square, despite the cold.”
The weather shift not only affected the northern United States as unusual winter temperatures fell across the South as well. Icy roads and freezing rain impacted areas unprepared for dealing with these conditions. Texas experienced wind chills around 20 degrees and in Atlanta lows reached 22 degrees.
The conditions become dangerous if humans lack preparation and knowledge on combating these extreme temperatures. Citizens are informed to stay inside if possible and wear protective gear such as mittens, hats and coats if going outside. Avoid spending extended periods of time in extreme temperatures, and be aware of the signs of hypothermia: shivering, memory loss, drowsiness and exhaustion. Check car batteries and heating units to ensure safety from such conditions. Temperatures this extreme cannot be taken lightly, as prolonged exposure leads to serious consequences.
