A massive winter storm is barreling down on the US, threatening to blanket nearly a fifth of the country in ice and snow. The worst of it is expected to hit as early as Friday, with catastrophic icy conditions predicted across multiple states.
The National Weather Service has warned that the storm could bring "catastrophic" ice accumulation, long-duration power outages, extensive tree damage, and extremely treacherous travel conditions. As many as 1,500 weekend flights have already been canceled, including hundreds in Texas where state officials claim the power grid is better prepared this time around.
However, some Texas officials may be underestimating the risk. Republican Governor Greg Abbott told journalists that "there's no expectation whatsoever" of a loss of power from the grid, which he claims has never been stronger and more capable of handling winter storms. Meanwhile in New York state, Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul is urging residents to stock up on food and supplies, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay indoors due to extreme cold that could be deadly.
The storm's origins are tied to a "polar vortex" - an Arctic region of low-pressure air that has stretched out across North America, bringing frigid temperatures and dangerous winds. Scientists say the increasing frequency of such disruptions may be linked to climate change, although the debate is not yet settled.
US President Donald Trump wasted no time in questioning how this cold front fits into broader climate shifts, tweeting that "whatever happened to global warming?" as temperatures plummet across multiple states.
The National Weather Service has warned that the storm could bring "catastrophic" ice accumulation, long-duration power outages, extensive tree damage, and extremely treacherous travel conditions. As many as 1,500 weekend flights have already been canceled, including hundreds in Texas where state officials claim the power grid is better prepared this time around.
However, some Texas officials may be underestimating the risk. Republican Governor Greg Abbott told journalists that "there's no expectation whatsoever" of a loss of power from the grid, which he claims has never been stronger and more capable of handling winter storms. Meanwhile in New York state, Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul is urging residents to stock up on food and supplies, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay indoors due to extreme cold that could be deadly.
The storm's origins are tied to a "polar vortex" - an Arctic region of low-pressure air that has stretched out across North America, bringing frigid temperatures and dangerous winds. Scientists say the increasing frequency of such disruptions may be linked to climate change, although the debate is not yet settled.
US President Donald Trump wasted no time in questioning how this cold front fits into broader climate shifts, tweeting that "whatever happened to global warming?" as temperatures plummet across multiple states.
! Like, I know some ppl think they got this winter thing under control 
, but let's be real 
, 1,500+ flights cancelled already? That's a whole lotta inconvenience 
. And the grid situation in Texas? Hmm 
. Better safe than sorry, y'know? 
Don't wanna be stuck without power during a blizzard 
. Also, can we talk about how our planet is getting all wacky with these polar vortex things? 
Climate change, am I right? 
Not sure what the science says yet, but it's def making me think twice about all that global warming business 
. governor abbott better check those power grids like, stat! 
... like yeah Greg Abbott you're not fooling anyone with your "grid is strong" act 
. And honestly, who needs 1,500 cancelled flights anyway? The extra travel time could be a good opportunity for people to appreciate the beauty of winter or just enjoy some extra sleep in 
.
. And Trump tweeting about global warming? Like, come on dude, climate change is real and we're already seeing more extreme weather events 
. It's not just about polar vortex this time around, it's about the bigger picture...