More than 60 million Americans are in the grips of a huge winter storm that could bring the heaviest snowfall and coldest temperatures in over a decade
A state of emergency has been declared in seven states – Kansas, one of the worst-hit areas, Missouri, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Arkansas and parts of New Jersey.
Forecasters say the extreme weather is caused by a polar vortex – an area of cold air that circulates around the Arctic – bringing cold weather to the central US.
Thousands of flights have already been delayed or cancelled, with many roads cut off and schools shut as a result of the storm.
There’s a warning that wind chill values are expected to cause temperatures as low as 16 degrees Fahrenheit (-8C). Dangerous surf, reaching up to seven feet, and life-threatening rip currents are also expected in coastal areas, including Alabama and northwest Florida beaches.
The National Weather Service for Mobile, Alabama, says in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that hypothermia is possible if precautions are not taken.
People are being advised to avoid going outside if possible and dressing in layers to conserve warmth.
The weather is expected to begin easing on Monday.