AP-NORC Poll Reveals Extreme Cold's Impact on American Lives
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Extreme Cold Grips US: Millions Affected, Utility Bills Soar
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News18•20-02-2026, 19:15
Extreme Cold Grips US: Millions Affected, Utility Bills Soar
•A new AP-NORC poll reveals 6 in 10 US adults have been personally affected by severe cold or winter storms in the past five years, an increase from 2025.
•Many Americans, like Chris Ferro, experienced frozen pipes and disruptions, with some noting this winter's cold rivals that of their youth.
•The cold weather led to higher electricity/gas bills for 7 in 10 Americans, and widespread work/school cancellations and power outages.
•Experts suggest that while the world is warming, less frequent extreme cold makes current events feel more intense, especially for younger generations.
•Two-thirds of those affected by severe weather believe climate change is a cause, though partisan divides exist in this perception.
