Brrr! If you thought this winter was already harsh, think again. A bone-chilling arctic blast has swept across the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, plunging temperatures to dangerous lows. And if that wasn’t enough, a rare winter storm is set to hit the Gulf Coast, bringing snow to areas that rarely see a flake. Over the weekend, parts of West Virginia saw up to 16 inches of snow, while the Great Lakes region shivered under single-digit highs. Meanwhile, the Gulf Coast and Southeast are bracing for up to 10 inches of snow, a rarity for these warmer states. Despite the freezing conditions, many Americans ventured out over the holiday weekend. From icy Lake Michigan shores to snow-covered streets in Washington, D.C., people bundled up and embraced—or endured—the winter wonderland. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, winter weather caused a multi-vehicle pileup, while in Houston, drivers were greeted with updates about the incoming storm. Even in places like Auburn, Maine, where snow is no stranger, residents like Kristina Foss and her daughter Kayleigh trudged through the heavy snowfall. On the brighter side, the cold didn’t stop the fun. Ice fishermen braved frozen Lake Champlain in Vermont, and workers cleared snow during an NFL playoff game in Philadelphia, where the Eagles triumphed over the Rams. As the week progresses, the bitter cold and snow show no signs of letting up. Whether you’re building snowmen or just trying to stay warm, this winter is proving to be one for the books. Stay safe, stay warm, and maybe keep that hot cocoa handy! ---