Washington, Jan 24 (V7N) — A severe cold snap from the Arctic has swept across the United States, sending temperatures well below freezing from the southeastern states to the East Coast. The extreme cold has already caused the cancellation of more than 8,000 flights, according to a report by Qatar-based Al Jazeera on Saturday.

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings affecting over 150 million people. Officials have cautioned that the snowstorm could create dangerous travel conditions, power outages, and life-threatening wind chills. Energy companies are preparing for potential strain on the power grid, while residents are stocking up on essential supplies.

The homeless population is particularly vulnerable in this weather. Emergency services have intensified operations to ensure their safety, urging people to seek shelters. Josh Sanders, Director of the Tulsa Day Center, said that temperatures below zero make it nearly impossible to protect those without proper equipment.

Rachel Pierre, Director of the Department of Human Services, said, “We have enough shelter. The goal is that no one is at risk in this cold.” Authorities have prepared approximately 1,700 shelter beds in Washington, D.C., and several states have declared a state of emergency.

Forecasts indicate that up to 12 inches of snow may fall in parts of Washington, D.C., New York, and Boston, heightening concerns over travel safety and the wellbeing of vulnerable populations.

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