As a powerful polar vortex descends upon the United States, around 120 million people are bracing for dangerously low temperatures and potential winter storms this weekend. Regions from Minnesota to the Southeast are expecting the coldest air in years, with forecasts indicating wind chills as low as minus 40 degrees in some areas. Meteorologists are warning residents to prepare for frigid temperatures, which are expected to move in and linger into next week. With bitter cold enveloping the Twin Cities and other central and eastern states, winter weather alerts have been issued, advising the public of extended periods of below-zero conditions. Stay warm and stay safe as this arctic blast approaches.