The U.S. is bracing for a record-breaking cold snap as a fierce polar vortex pushes arctic air southward, bringing dangerously low temperatures across the nation. This cold wave is expected to be the most severe of the season, with temperatures plunging to levels not seen in decades.

Experts are warning that this polar vortex is comparable to those from the 1980s, and it’s causing significant disruptions to daily life. In some areas, temperatures will drop to an astonishing -32.8°F, more than 36°F colder than the usual January average. Cities like Chicago will face lows around -13°F, while Kansas will experience temperatures as low as -4°F. Even further south, Nashville, Tennessee, could see the mercury dip to 17.6°F, and Dallas will feel the chill at 24.8°F.

The East Coast isn’t escaping the freeze either. In New York, temperatures will hover around 14°F on Tuesday, with a chance of snow. Washington, D.C., will be equally cold, with the inauguration of President Donald Trump taking place at a brisk 21.2°F. To ensure safety, the event, which was originally scheduled outdoors, has been moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda, echoing a similar move during Ronald Reagan’s 1985 inauguration.

This cold front isn’t just confined to the northern states—its icy grip is spreading across the central and eastern U.S., reaching as far south as Texas. The widespread nature of this weather event is affecting everything from daily routines to major events, showcasing just how serious this cold snap is.

Weather experts suggest that January 2023 could go down as the coldest January in the U.S. this century, especially if the cold temperatures persist. While there might be a brief break in the snow, the bitter cold air is expected to linger, keeping temperatures well below normal.

Meanwhile, on the West Coast, Los Angeles is battling wildfires, highlighting the extremes in weather across the country. The polar vortex serves as a powerful reminder of nature’s unpredictability, testing infrastructure and communities across the nation. As these extreme weather patterns continue to challenge us, it’s essential to stay prepared and adaptable.