Key Facts
• Over the next several days, a record cold wave will hit wide areas from the U.S. East to South.
• Two-thirds of the U.S. population will be affected by the cold wave.
• At least 16 states including New York and Washington D.C. have declared states of emergency.
• Washington D.C. expects up to 25 cm of snow; federal agencies will close on January 26.
• More than 5,000 flights scheduled for January 25 were canceled due to weather.
• Some regions may experience power outages lasting several days.
• On January 23, former President Trump expressed skepticism about climate change on social media.
• Meanwhile, Australia faces a heatwave; the Australian Open tennis matches in Melbourne were temporarily suspended on January 24.
• Melbourne’s temperature forecast reached 40°C; matches were moved earlier by one hour.
• Heatstroke among players led to closing the stadium roof as a countermeasure.
Summary
A record-breaking cold wave is forecast to impact a vast portion of the United States over several days, affecting infrastructure and transportation. Approximately two-thirds of Americans will face disruptions, with at least 16 states and Washington D.C. declaring emergencies. Washington D.C. anticipates heavy snowfall up to 25 cm, prompting federal office closures. Flight cancellations exceeded 5,000 on January 25, and prolonged power outages are possible in some areas. Former President Trump publicly questioned climate change amid the crisis. In contrast, Australia is enduring a severe heatwave, causing a temporary halt to the Australian Open tennis matches in Melbourne. Temperatures reached 40°C, leading to earlier match times and stadium roof closures to protect players from heatstroke. These contrasting weather extremes highlight global climate challenges.
