A massive winter storm spanning over 3,000 kilometers is currently sweeping across the United States, triggering emergency declarations in 18 states and disrupting daily life for approximately 170 million residents. The system, which began impacting regions on January 25, 2026, brings record-breaking cold temperatures and heavy snowfall that meteorologists predict could rank among the most severe winter events in recent U.S. history.
Northern states including Minnesota and North Dakota face life-threatening conditions, with wind chill values potentially plunging to -46°C this week. The University of Mississippi and Elizabethtown College are among hundreds of educational institutions that have suspended operations, while federal offices in Washington D.C. will remain closed on January 26 as precautionary measures.
Transportation networks face mounting challenges, with flight cancellations exceeding 8,000 nationwide and major highway closures reported from Texas to Maine. Energy providers warn of potential power outages as demand surges during the cold snap, particularly affecting states unaccustomed to extreme winter conditions.
