Polar Vortex Brings Life-Threatening Cold in US, 10 Dead in Kentucky Floods

Severe weather shifted west on Monday, with a polar vortex set to ensnare the Rockies and northern Plains after winter storms battered the eastern U.S. during the weekend, claiming at least 10 lives. Nine people, including a child and a mother, perished in Kentucky as a result of flooding due to heavy rain.

The National Weather Service posted a warning for ‘life-threatening cold’ through Tuesday, with temperatures in northeastern Montana dropping as low as 45 below zero (-42.7°C), with wind chills of 60 below (-51°C). Meteorologists forecast this would be the 10th and lowest polar vortex event of the season, caused by Arctic weather patterns forcing cold air into the U.S. and Europe.

Fatalities and Flooding in Kentucky

In Kentucky, Governor Andy Beshear announced that the weekend storm death toll increased to nine, the majority of which occurred when cars were stuck in floodwater. Thousands were left stranded and President Trump had authorized FEMA to provide aid to recoveries. Kentucky and Tennessee experienced as much as 6 inches of rain, and there was extensive damage from severe flooding.

Tornado and Levee Failures

Alabama experienced an EF-1 tornado in Hale County, which damaged mobile homes, trees, and power lines. No one was injured. In Tennessee, a state of emergency was declared in Obion County following the failure of a levee, which caused serious flooding, necessitating mandatory evacuations because of rising water and freezing temperatures.

Atlanta Fatalities and Warnings

In Atlanta, one person was fatally injured when a huge tree toppled onto a house. Subzero cold wind chill temperatures, ranging from 50 degrees below zero, were forecast to hit North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota, where extreme cold warnings were posted.

Flooding and Damage in Kentucky and Virginia

Heavy flooding inundated cars and houses in Kentucky, and mudslides closed roads in Virginia. Patients were relocated from Kentucky River Medical Center because of river flooding nearby. Four deaths, including two of a mother and child, were reported in Hart County. Power outages and dangerous conditions were widespread across the area.

State of Emergency in West Virginia

A state of emergency was declared in 13 West Virginia counties because of flooding, and emergency responders made many weather-related calls. Winter storms created hazardous road conditions in Michigan, and more than 100 accidents happened. Authorities in Colorado issued hazardous travel warnings due to the weather. Avalanche advisories were put out for the Rocky Mountains that run from Colorado to Washington state.