Polar Vortex Brings Record-Breaking Cold to U.S., Threatens Millions

CHICAGO, Ill. — A polar vortex is sweeping across the United States, bringing life-threatening cold temperatures to millions of Americans from the Rockies eastward. Meteorologists warn of wind chills as low as minus 50 degrees in some regions, with the coldest air expected to linger through the end of January.

“Basically anywhere from the Rockies eastward will see below-normal temperatures over the next several days,” said Zack Taylor, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service‘s Weather Prediction Center. “The Rockies, northern Plains, and Upper Midwest are expected to see wind chill readings as low as minus 30 to minus 50 by this weekend into early next week.”

The polar vortex, a large area of low pressure and cold air that typically circles the poles, has expanded southward, driving frigid air into the U.S. This outbreak is one of the most far-reaching of the season, affecting regions unaccustomed to such extreme cold, including the South and Mid-Atlantic. Cities like Dallas, Atlanta, and Charlotte, N.C., are forecast to experience high temperatures below freezing, with morning lows dropping as far south as Houston, New Orleans, and Tallahassee, Fla.

Taylor emphasized the dangers of prolonged exposure to such conditions. “Temperatures this low pose a great risk of hypothermia and frostbite to any exposed skin,” he said. “These conditions could be dangerous to life-threatening, regardless of whether they break records.”

While the connection between climate change and polar vortex disruptions remains an active area of research, the current cold snap is part of a broader pattern of extreme weather. January has already been unusually cold for much of the central and eastern U.S., with the trend expected to continue through the month.

In Tennessee, FOX 17 News issued a CODE RED weather alert as light snow and frigid temperatures moved into the region. A Winter Weather Advisory was in effect for the Plateau, with up to an inch of snow expected. Middle Tennessee faced a Cold Weather Advisory, with temperatures dropping to single digits and wind chills reaching 5 degrees below zero.

Residents are urged to take precautions, including limiting time outdoors, dressing in layers, and keeping emergency kits in their vehicles. “Dress warmly and in multiple layers,” Taylor advised. “A moisture-wicking first layer, an insulating piece, and a wind-insulating top layer are essential.”

The cold snap coincides with several high-profile events, including NFL playoff games in Kansas City, Detroit, Philadelphia, and Buffalo, N.Y. In Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump‘s second inauguration on Monday is expected to be the coldest since President Ronald Reagan‘s in 1985, with temperatures struggling to reach 22 degrees and wind gusts making it feel even colder.

As the polar vortex tightens its grip, meteorologists stress the importance of staying informed and prepared. “This is not just a typical cold spell,” Taylor said. “It’s a serious weather event that demands attention and caution.”