Today’s winter storm has been brought to you by the polar vortex, guaranteed to bring you unforgiving wind chills, snow and severe overall discomfort.

Winter Storm Ion has brought high inches of snow with promises to bring much more. Weather forecasts of -31, -25 and -15 will be seen in some states (mostly Midwestern states) throughout Wednesday. States in all regions will experience low temperatures in the single digits with freezing rain if not snow.

its so cold outside im dying

— vanille (@winsbieber) January 6, 2014

Went to the gas station on my break. It's so cold outside that I'm not sure I want to be alive anymore.

— Miles Preston (@MilesPreston90) January 6, 2014

It's disgustingly cold outside

— Josh Clifton (@Joshclifton21) January 6, 2014

I don't often find myself saying this, but HOLY CRAP IT'S COLD OUTSIDE!!! :S I thought fatties weren't supposed to get cold. XD #Shivering

— Akaras (@AkarasOre) January 6, 2014

According to Time Magazine, at this time Winter Storm Ion is responsible for 16 deaths and over 5,000 flight cancellations since Wednesday. Stay warm (and bring your pets in too), and travel safely so that you’ll be able to tell the tale of having survived the polar vortex to your grandchildren.

If help is needed for ourselves or others:

DC/MD it's cold outside. If You Know of a Homeless Teen, Refer them to The Promise Place Shelter. 1400 Doewood Lane, Seat Pleasant, MD.

— Code Blue Campaign (@GoCodeBlue) January 6, 2014

Now up to a dozen residents at our dt Indy shelter with lots of room remaining. Everyone should should have a warm place to sleep tonight.

— Indy Red Cross (@IndyRedCross) January 6, 2014

Who to contact if you're aware of someone without shelter in the Boston area tonight: http://t.co/WWobXXKOCk

— Joe Hill (@joe_hill) January 4, 2014

Image via NDN