Growing number of Americans report extreme cold

AP-NORC poll finds more people affected by frigid winter weather in recent years

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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A new AP-NORC poll found that about 6 in 10 U.S. adults say they've been personally affected by severe cold weather or severe winter storms in the past five years, up from around half in a 2025 survey. The findings point to the growing prevalence of experiences with cold weather, with many saying they haven't felt such bitter cold in years.

Why it matters

The increase in Americans reporting extreme cold weather experiences highlights how climate change is impacting weather patterns, with abnormally cold winters happening less frequently but feeling more intense when they do occur. This is leading to higher utility bills, school and work cancellations, and other disruptions for many.

The details

The poll found that in the past year, about 7 in 10 Americans say their electricity or gas bills have been higher than usual because of winter storms or extreme cold. Around 4 in 10 have experienced a work or school cancellation, roughly one-third a power outage, and about 3 in 10 a travel cancellation or delay due to the cold weather.

  • The poll was conducted from February 5-8, 2026.
  • The survey found that millions in North America experienced bitterly cold temperatures to kick off 2026.

The players

Chris Ferro

A 58-year-old Brooklyn, New York resident who owns several residential properties in Albany and experienced abnormally cold temperatures that prevented him from doing repairs and renovations.

Annie Braswell

A 66-year-old resident of Greenville, North Carolina who said January and February felt like "it hadn't been that cold in 40 years" and her utility bill doubled compared to normal.

Joseph Bird

A 21-year-old college student in Provo, Utah who identifies as an independent and believes climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather.

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What they’re saying

“Pipes that never froze on me for 15 years froze”

— Chris Ferro (WRAL)

“I just take life one day at a time, and I realize these are things that I can't change”

— Annie Braswell (WRAL)

“I think climate change is a natural thing that happens … to some extent it's sped up by some things. I think it increases the frequency of extreme weather is how I'd see it”

— Joseph Bird (WRAL)

What’s next

The poll results highlight the growing impact of climate change on weather patterns and the need for communities to prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.

The takeaway

As climate change continues to disrupt weather patterns, Americans are experiencing more frequent and intense cold weather events that are causing significant disruptions to their daily lives, from higher utility bills to school and work closures. This underscores the need for greater investment in climate resilience and adaptation measures.