Threat level: The storm's hazards are multifaceted, from "life-threatening" blizzard conditions in Iowa to powerful winds that may cause damage in at least a dozen states.
Climate scientists lack an explanation for why 2023 was the world's hottest year by such a large margin, calling the records revealed Friday "astonishing."
Why it matters: Without an adequate explanation for 2023's record global temperatures, scientists could be missing a shift in the climate system that would call into question their projections of future climate change.
BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, on Friday announced a $12.5 billion agreement to acquire Global Infrastructure Partners.
Why it matters: This appears to be the richest acquisition ever of a private equity firm, even if BlackRock views GIP as more of an infrastructure owner/operator than a traditional PE shop.
A bomb cyclone that will bring "life-threatening blizzard conditions" to Iowa was beginning to form in the Southwest on Thursday, and is set to move across the Plains before dramatically intensifying over the Midwest.
The big picture: The third in a series of major storms to hit the U.S. in the past 10 days, the bomb cyclone will usher in the coldest air of the winter so far, which will envelop much of the country, from the northern Plains to the Gulf Coast.
Driving the news: After a mild and tranquil start, a parade of storms are bringing cold and snow for millions, and rain and wind for others, all within a matter of days.
