Dangerous Cold in the US Threatens Millions of Americans With Winter Warnings, Cold-Related Health Risk

The outbreak of arctic air will bring colder temperatures to parts of the US, including in the Northeast, Northern Plains, Midwest, West Coast and Southeast. Prolonged exposure to cold is not advisable due to the risk of hypothermia.

The winter conditions unleashed heavy snow, blizzards and wind chills this January. Although Americans are used to winter, it can still become deadly for homeowners. People are advised to stay updated with the latest winter forecasts, especially if they have any travel plans.

The National Weather Service (NWS) warned of icy surfaces and slippery conditions due to the colder weather. Parents should always look at their children to avoid ice injuries. Wearing the proper winter footwear is important, especially for any outdoor plans.

In Tennessee and Memphis, the unusually heavy snow and sleet conditions are likely with low temperatures. About 80 million people in the US are at risk of cold-related warnings this winter. The extreme cold is accompanied by strong winds.

Weather in the Southern US with Heavy Snow

Snow in US by JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images

In the latest report, homeowners should watch out for a mix of ice and snow in the Southern US. The main concerns are power outages and widespread travel disruption.

On the midweek, colder conditions are expected to spread over the following areas:

Wichita
Oklahoma City
Little Rock
Dallas
Jackson
Montgomery
Atlanta
Nashville
Cincinnati
Jackson
Jacksonville
New Orleans
Houston
Corpus Christi
Lubbock
Richmond
Raleigh

In Florida with the usual rain, temperatures can drop from 20 to 40 degrees. Record lows can also unfold in Kansas City, St. Louis, Indianapolis, San Antonio and Houston.

In Houston, a wind chill advisory is likely in the city with dropping temperatures. Residents are advised to wear proper winter clothes for any outdoor plan.

Meanwhile, dangerously cold temperatures and wintry patterns can unfold over Chicago on Thursday and the weekend.

In other parts of the US, the forecast monitors the impact of lake-effect snow in the early week. The arctic air outbreak can bring waves of cold weather in Boston, New York, Washington, Buffalo and Cincinnati.

Also Read : NWS Weather Forecast: Hazardous Winter Weather to Impact Great Lakes, Southern US

Dangerous Cold Snap Safety Tips in the US

Freezing temperatures and cold snap can occur anytime in the US due to the winter and stormy conditions. Homeowners should limit any travel plans, and it is best to bring pets inside homes.

Turning on a home's heating system can reduce the risk of hypothermia and frostbite. People should also cover any exposed skin, including lips. Freezing plumbing and pipes is possible.

The heavy snow and winter storms can affect road conditions in the US. In addition, Americans should have winter kits in times of emergency due to blizzards and snow.