NASA satellites, some of them positioned to monitor hurricanes and others involved in climate research, are watching the massive winter storm that has much of the Central and Eastern United States in its grips.
Everyday, these spacecraft help people plan their commutes to work as well as their recreational and professional activities.
As many as 100 million people will be affected by the frigid temperatures, rain, sleet and snow associated with what experts are calling one of the largest winter storms in the past half century.
NOAA's GOES 13 captures massive winter storm on Feb. 1. Crucial to monitoring tropical storm development during hurricane season, GOES 13 was launched by NASA in May 2006. Photo credit/NOAA
The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder aboard NASA's Aqua spacecraft records winter storm's frigid temperatures. The purple, blue and greens represented the lowest readings. Aqua was launched in May 2002. Photo Credit/NASA
More temperate conditions are forecast for the weekend.
People in the storm’s path may find solace in the annual Groundhog Day ritual involving Punxsatawney Phil, who emerged from his stump in Western Pennsylvania at dawn on Wednesday and failed to see his shadow.
Punxsatawney Phil shuns shadow. Photo Credit/groundhog.org
That means an early Spring, according to folklore.