Many areas in the South are expected to experience below-freezing temperatures for over 24 hours, raising concerns about infrastructure issues such as burst pipes.

Frozen pipes pose a significant risk as water expands when it freezes, leading to pressure that can cause pipes to break, resulting in costly repairs.

With Houston's temperatures dropping to around 18 degrees Fahrenheit, residents are increasingly worried about frozen pipes and are seeking plumbing assistance.

In response to the storm, governors in Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama have declared states of emergency, leading to the cancellation of classes across many school systems on January 21.

The emergency declarations include measures to prevent price gouging, suspend hours-of-service limitations for commercial vehicle operators, and increase transport limits for emergency supplies.

Residents from Texas to north Florida are taking precautions by insulating pipes, checking heating systems, and stocking up on emergency supplies ahead of the storm.

The storm is expected to create hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages, exacerbating the risks associated with the extreme cold.

A severe winter storm is currently impacting residents from the Northern Plains to Maine, bringing heavy snowfall and dangerously low temperatures.

As part of the emergency response, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency has activated the State Operations Center and mobilized resources, including the potential deployment of Georgia National Guard troops.

Residents are advised to stay updated with the FOX 5 Storm Team regarding the evolving storm conditions and their potential impacts on travel and safety.

It is crucial for individuals to check on vulnerable community members to ensure they have warm shelter and to bring pets indoors during this severe cold weather.

This cold wave, dubbed the 'Arctic Outbreak,' is caused by a sudden influx of extreme cold air from polar regions, leading to blizzard conditions and hazardous travel situations.