US braces for historic winter storm; power outage risks mount, flights cancelled — all you need to know

The United States is in the grip of a severe winter storm, with freezing rain, sleet and bitter Arctic air affecting more than half the country. Forecasters warn that the damage, especially in ice-lashed regions, could be as destructive as a hurricane.The frigid air at this time has created life-threatening conditions. The Midwest region experienced wind chills, causing temperatures to plummet to -40°C, which can lead to frostbite within 10 minutes, making it dangerous to even wait for a bus in the winter.In North Dakota, where the wind chills have brought the temperature down to -41°C, resident Colin Cross says, “I’ve been here a while, and my brain stopped working.”Cross, who was decked up with thermals, two long-sleeve shirts, a jacket, a hat, a hood, gloves and boots, shares his experience of being out in an empty unit for the apartment complex where he works.