The United States is amid an unprecedented winter storm, with dangerously cold wind, freezing rain and heavy snow predicted to continue for the next few days.
The freezing weather has caused near-record lows in the Midwest, while subzero temperatures have plunged the Deep South into icy chaos.
Wind chills of up to minus 65 degrees have been reported in Montana and the western Dakotas.
As of Saturday night, 44 million people in the United States were under a winter weather advisory, with 29 million under a wind chill warning, and another 64 million under a wind chill advisory. A winter storm warning was in effect for 18 million people, warning them of the threats of heavy snowfalls, icy roads, and dangerous blizzards.
During one of the coldest NFL playoff games in history, the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday night in Missouri defeated the Miami Dolphins. The temperature during halftime was minus 3, with a wind chill of minus 25.
The Buffalo Bills had to postpone until Monday their home playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to the winter storm.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul made the announcement on Saturday, citing concerns about the safety of fans traveling in hazardous conditions. While disappointing, it’s a necessary precaution to ensure the well-being of everyone involved.
The freezing temperatures have also caused widespread disruption across the country, with road closures, power outages, and cancellations of flights and public transport.
The snow has accumulated in some areas as high as three feet, rendering some communities inaccessible. The government has issued warnings urging people to stay at home and avoid nonessential travel, but for many, work and other commitments have made that impossible.
