A cold snap is gripping the Central U.S. as polar temperatures plunge to record lows, affecting over 95 million people. Meteorologist Andrew Olison from the National Weather Service reports that extreme cold has led to school closures in several states, including Oklahoma, Iowa, and Minnesota, and communities are opening temporary shelters for the homeless. North Dakota recorded a historical low of minus 39 degrees, surpassing the previous record from 1910.
The harsh weather has also caused hazardous conditions, with icy roads and bridges impacting travel in Oklahoma and winter storms forecasted for Kentucky, where the number of weather-related deaths has risen to 14. In Virginia, authorities are preparing for significant snowfall, and North Carolina has declared a state of emergency as it anticipates up to nine inches of snow.
Tennessee officials reported no fatalities from local storm impacts, while West Virginia is dealing with multiple storm-related deaths, closed schools, and disrupted public services. Flooding occurred in Detroit due to a water main break, and emergency services were deployed to assist affected residents.
As winter weather continues to pose significant challenges across the region, emergency responders and local governments are actively working to support communities in need.
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