Much of the United States is currently experiencing extreme cold temperatures, causing power outages and potentially affecting voter turnout in the upcoming Iowa caucuses. The Arctic blast, which has affected northern states, Texas, and parts of the Midwest, is expected to continue throughout the day. In Iowa, temperatures are predicted to reach a dangerous -35 degrees Fahrenheit (-37 Celsius) on Monday night when voters gather for the caucuses to select a Republican presidential nominee. The hazardous conditions have led Republican candidates to cancel campaign events, although they are encouraging their supporters to brave the icy weather and participate in the voting process. Despite the weather challenges, former President Donald Trump maintains a significant lead in the polls over his main rivals, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley. Additionally, states like Montana, South Dakota, and North Dakota are experiencing wind chills as low as -58 degrees Fahrenheit (-50 Celsius). The extreme weather has also caused disruptions in air travel, with thousands of flights being delayed or canceled. Denver International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport have been particularly affected. Power outages persist in several areas, including Oregon, Texas, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, with over 100,000 customers still without electricity. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has urged customers to conserve electricity due to freezing temperatures, high demand, and low wind. The freezing weather has also resulted in frozen wells across the country, leading to a decrease in natural gas output and increased demand for heating and power generation. Please note that this story has been published from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by NDTV staff.
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Extreme cold temperatures grip US as 2024 Presidential Race commences.
