As much of the country plunges into temperatures well below freezing, the Midwest is experiencing the coldest weather ever recorded for the region.
Although some are staying inside and avoiding the polar vortex's dangerous temperatures, some are venturing out into the cold to be greeted by frozen lakes, icicle-lined lampposts, and snowy winds. Many are turning to social media to document the effects of the frigid weather.
Take look at what it's like inside the polar vortex.
Many woke up Wednesday to learn that the temperature outside is colder than it is in Antarctica.
Records are being broken all across the nation. Rockford, Illinois, for example, reached its lowest temperature ever at minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit.
Chicago residents also found the Chicago River completely frozen.
In Chicago, temperatures reached minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
The lake wasn't the only thing frozen, though. From lampposts to frosted trees, Chicago has been turned into a frozen wonderland.
Chicago has been dubbed "Chiberia" because of its eerie resemblance to chilly Siberia.
For some, icicles are even forming indoors.
But the real danger is on the roads — where visibility is greatly reduced.
Despite the freezing temps, people are making the most of the weather — even having fun.
Many learned that if you throw a pot of boiling water into the air, it will instantly turn to snow.
It isn't all fun and games though. For those who still have to go to work, bundling up and wearing layers is encouraged.
Even the pups are preparing for the cold weather.
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- Read more:
- Parts of the US are colder than Antarctica as a frigid polar vortex brings temperatures of minus 30 degrees
- The Kentucky governor criticized schools for closing down during the polar vortex: 'We're getting soft'
- Over 1,500 flights cancelled as winter weather wreaks havoc on US's busiest airports
- The frigid 'polar vortex' cold snap engulfing the US is so bad it can give people frostbite in 5 minutes
