'Life-Threatening' Cold Air, Snow Brings Travel Delays, Higher Heating Costs

by Erica Kollmann Benzinga Staff Writer

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AccuWeather meteorologists warn that “life-threatening” cold is moving across the central U.S. with the coldest conditions spreading east.
American Airlines and Southwest Airlines are reporting the highest percentage of cancellations as of Wednesday morning.
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Record-breaking cold and winter weather is gripping much of the United States on Wednesday and the National Weather Service has issued weather advisories, watches or warnings in 38 states. Snow, ice and travel delays are expected to mount throughout the day with effects lingering into Thursday as well.

What To Know: AccuWeather meteorologists warn that "life-threatening" cold is moving across the central U.S. with the coldest conditions spreading east behind the track of a winter storm bringing arctic air that "will be painful, dangerous and damaging in some cases."

Oklahoma City woke up to blowing and drifting snow Wednesday morning with temperatures just above zero Fahrenheit and wind chills of 30 below zero. Storm conditions are tracking east and are forecast to bring snow and ice to much of the mid-Atlantic region including Virginia, Maryland and North Carolina. Lighter snow accumulations are expected into New England as well.

The cold air following the storm is expected to intensify throughout the week. CNN reported approximately 75% of the US population is expected to experience below-freezing conditions by Friday with temperatures as much as 50 degrees below February averages.

Energy Effects: The frigid air will place pressure on household budgets and energy demands. The price of natural gas is up more than 4% on Wednesday and nearly 16% since the beginning of 2025, according to TradingEconomics. The United States Natural Gas Fund ETF UNG which tracks the the daily percentage changes in natural gas prices is climbing higher on the cold weather forecast as well.

Travel Delays: Travelers should expect changing conditions and possible delays Wednesday and into Thursday as well. According to data from FlightAware, more than 450 flights have been cancelled and another 700 flights delayed. Cancellations and delays are expected to mount throughout the day.

American Airlines Group, Inc. AAL and Southwest Airlines Co. LUV are reporting the highest percentage of cancellations, with 4% and 1% of flights cancelled as of Wednesday morning.

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