Record-Breaking Cold Grips Northeast, Trump Inaugurated as 47th President

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, January 20, 2025, marking his second non-consecutive term. The historic inauguration coincided with a severe winter storm sweeping across the Northeast, bringing record-breaking cold and dangerous conditions to millions.

As Trump took the oath of office, temperatures in Central New York and Northeast Ohio plummeted to their lowest levels of the season. Wind chills in Central New York dropped to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, with frostbite warnings issued for exposed skin in under 30 minutes. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued cold weather advisories for regions including Syracuse, Cleveland, and Akron, urging residents to take precautions.

“These are the coldest wind chills we’ve seen this winter,” said meteorologist Peter Hall. “Frostbite can occur in less than an hour, and driving conditions are treacherous due to icy roads and heavy lake-effect snow.”

In Central New York, lake-effect snow blanketed Jefferson, Lewis, and Oswego counties, with some areas expecting up to two feet of snow. Syracuse saw lighter accumulations, but temperatures near zero made road treatments less effective. “The salt brine mixture won’t work as well in these extreme conditions,” Hall added.

Northeast Ohio faced similarly brutal conditions, with wind chills reaching -27 degrees in some areas. The NWS issued an extreme cold warning, predicting frostbite risks within 30 minutes of exposure. Warming centers opened across Cleveland and Akron, including the Michael Zone Recreation Center and Summit Lake Community Center, to provide shelter for residents.

“We’re urging everyone to stay indoors if possible,” said a spokesperson for the Cleveland Office of Emergency Management. “If you must go outside, dress in layers and cover all exposed skin.”

The cold snap also raised concerns about infrastructure. Residents were advised to wrap or drain pipes to prevent freezing and avoid using portable heaters or generators indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.

As the Northeast braced for the storm, Trump’s inauguration drew attention to the nation’s political landscape. The 45th president returned to the White House after a contentious election, vowing to address economic and security challenges. “This is a new chapter for America,” Trump said in his inaugural address. “Together, we will rebuild, restore, and renew our great nation.”

Meanwhile, meteorologists warned that the extreme weather would persist through Wednesday. “Stay tuned for updates,” said Mike Brookins of CNYcentral. “This is a dangerous situation, and we want everyone to stay safe.”