Most of the U.S. experiences its snowiest months in January or February, especially in central and eastern regions with over three inches of annual snowfall, affecting about 190 million people including major cities like New York, Chicago, and Seattle.
Retail sales rebounded by 0.6% in February after a sharp decline in January, with categories like building materials and garden equipment, motor vehicles and parts, and electronics and appliances leading the gains. The modest rebound suggests a slowdown in consumer spending growth, but the economy has remained on solid footing, with consensus projections for economic growth in the first quarter moving higher and the labor market continuing to add more jobs than expected.
The New York Rangers finished off an impressive 10-1 February with a 4-1 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets, reclaiming the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed. The team's strong performance was highlighted by a balanced offensive attack and solid defensive play, with goalie Igor Shesterkin posting a .953 save percentage for the month. Artemi Panarin led the way with a three-point game, while the energetic fourth line of Adam Edström, Barclay Goodrow, and Matt Rempe made an impact. The win showcased the Rangers' resilience and determination as they look to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
Detroit reached a record high temperature of 73 degrees in February, breaking the previous record set in 2017, but a drastic cold front is expected to bring temperatures back down with potential severe thunderstorms before mild temperatures return later in the week.
A collection of six stunning space images and videos from February includes a rare view of a solar eclipse on the Martian moon Phobos, along with other captivating images from NASA and JPL-Caltech/ASU.
The Social Security Administration has sent three rounds of Social Security payments in February, with one more round to go. Payment dates depend on birthdate and when payments were first received, with specific dates for different birthdate ranges. Those receiving both Social Security and SSI have different payment schedules. If a check doesn't arrive on the expected date, the SSA advises waiting three additional mailing days before reaching out, and provides a phone number for assistance.
A rare tornado hit Wisconsin in February, causing significant damage in rural areas as warm temperatures and severe weather conditions created the perfect scenario for tornado formation. The storms left a trail of destruction, including dead and missing cows, damaged buildings, and shattered windows. The unusual occurrence of a winter tornado in Wisconsin has raised concerns about the impact of climate change on severe weather events.
Wisconsin experienced its first-ever February tornado, highlighting the increasing frequency of extreme weather events possibly linked to climate change.
Michigan is experiencing an unusual surge of record warmth, with temperatures expected to reach 60 degrees in several cities today and tomorrow, including Kalamazoo, Lansing, Flint, Saginaw, Bay City, Jackson, Ann Arbor, Monroe, and Detroit. Northern Michigan will also see record high temperatures, falling just short of 60 degrees. This unseasonably warm weather is expected to continue into Friday before returning to near-normal temperatures next week.
Michigan is set to experience an extremely warm week in early February, with temperatures climbing into the 40s and 50s, a rare occurrence for this time of year. Factors such as morning fog burning off, sunshine, and a southwest wind from Oklahoma and Texas will contribute to the warmth. However, colder air is expected to return between February 14 and 16, bringing temperatures back to normal for the end of the month.
February will feature a series of celestial events including the ongoing α-Centaurid meteor shower, a new moon on February 9, a close approach of the Moon and Jupiter on February 15, a close approach of Venus and Mars on February 22, and the Snow Moon on February 24. Sky gazers can look forward to these spectacular events, with opportunities to witness meteor showers, planetary alignments, and the full moon at its peak splendor.
February brings a slew of new games to Xbox, including Skull and Bones, A Little to the Left, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, and more. The gaming community is buzzing with excitement as players dive into Persona 3 Reload and anticipate the release of titles like Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden and Warhammer 40,000: Chaos Gate — Daemonhunters. A poll is currently underway to gauge which new Xbox games players are most looking forward to in February.
February skygazing will offer limited events for stargazers in the Northern Hemisphere, with visible planets and the Alpha Centaurids meteor shower peaking. The full Snow Moon on Feb. 24 will appear duller and smaller due to its position as a micromoon, while weather conditions, including dense fog, may hinder stargazing opportunities. However, skywatchers can anticipate a lunar eclipse in March and a total solar eclipse in April, with Solar Cycle 25 expected to peak later in the year.
February horoscopes for each zodiac sign indicate a focus on career, finances, and personal growth. Aries can expect career success, while Taurus will see fresh starts in their career. Gemini should share their innovative ideas at work, and Cancer may need to consider their financial satisfaction. Leos should focus on collaborations and routines, while Virgos need to balance self-care with career changes. Libras should prioritize joy and fun, and Scorpios should focus on introspection and creativity. Sagittarius may see career expansion, and Capricorns should focus on crushing their goals. Aquarius can expect new beginnings and personal growth, while Pisces should embrace their upcoming birthday season and focus on partnerships.