Severe storms recently swept through the southeastern U.S., particularly affecting Kentucky where heavy rainfall resulted in at least nine deaths. Floods caused significant damage, prompting rescues and a disaster emergency declaration. In the aftermath, a polar vortex is anticipated, bringing extreme cold to the Rockies and northern Plains. Residents are urged to avoid travel due to hazardous conditions. The storms have left hundreds of thousands without power and caused widespread evacuations, especially in Tennessee and Kentucky.