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Severe Winter Storm to Hit 230 Million Americans

1/22/2026

48 9 Full Breakdown

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Winter Storm Impact

A severe winter storm is forecast to affect much of the United States later this week.
The polar vortex will stretch, risking subzero temperatures and ice from New Mexico to New England.
About 230 million people could see temperatures below 20°F (–7°C), with roughly 150 million facing snow and ice.
The storm could cause travel disruptions and power outages, with catastrophic ice accumulation, especially in the South, into early February.

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Mississippi Winter Storm

A winter storm driven by a polar vortex is forecast to impact Mississippi this weekend.
The National Weather Service (NWS) warns of dangerous cold with lows in the teens and wind chills to 15°F or colder.
Storm chances include Hernando and Corinth with more than 3 inches of snow, 50% odds, Starkville with ice exceeding 2 inches, and extreme cold could persist into early next week, risking people and infrastructure.

History

Historical Context

The January 2014 polar vortex caused extreme cold across the United States, with temperatures dropping to –15°F (–26°C) and affecting over 200 million people. This event followed a significant cold wave that began in December 2013, attributed to a weakened polar vortex. The severe weather led to widespread travel disruptions, power outages, and an estimated economic impact of $5 billion.

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Winter Storm Impact

A severe winter storm is forecast to affect much of the United States later this week.
The polar vortex will stretch, risking subzero temperatures and ice from New Mexico to New England.
About 230 million people could see temperatures below 20°F (–7°C), with roughly 150 million facing snow and ice.
The storm could cause travel disruptions and power outages, with catastrophic ice accumulation, especially in the South, into early February.

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