Polar Cold Grips Parts of America; At Least 12 People Have Died

An unprecedented polar cold front in recent decades hit the central northern and eastern states of the U.S. on Wednesday, causing a severe drop in temperatures and widespread frost. It is reported that at least 12 people have died in incidents related to this polar cold. According to the Associated Press, temperatures in some central northern states have dropped significantly. In Chicago, the temperature reached 32 degrees below zero, which is unprecedented since 1985. The report states that cold winds make it feel like 50 degrees below zero in cities like Chicago. By 4 PM on Wednesday, 2,600 flights had been canceled, with 1,500 cancellations at O'Hare Airport in Chicago alone. Reports indicate that in many cities in the central northern states and parts of New York, schools, universities, and banks were closed on Wednesday. An emergency has been declared in Chicago and the states of Michigan and Wisconsin. Similarly, in Buffalo, New York, universities, schools, and banks were also closed due to the cold and polar winds. The Associated Press states that in addition to human casualties from the polar cold in the northern states of the U.S., this cold wave has also damaged economic infrastructures, including railways. The severe cold has caused passenger trains to halt operations from Chicago and out of the city, which is considered one of the busiest routes. Reuters also reports that most streets in Chicago were deserted and no one was seen on the streets. According to the report, many cities have designated shelters and warm centers for people fleeing the cold to have a place to stay safe. The Chicago police have also announced that five bus lines will provide service to those wanting to go to these shelters.