Group 1 - Cuba recorded a historic low temperature of 0 degrees Celsius, marking the first time such a low temperature has been observed in the country since meteorological records began in the mid-19th century [1][3] - The previous record low temperature in Cuba was 0.6 degrees Celsius, recorded in 1996 [1] - The low temperature was recorded at a weather station in Matanzas province, where frost has affected local crops, which is extremely rare for the typically warm tropical island [1] Group 2 - The drop in temperature is attributed to a strong cold front bringing polar air from North America into the Caribbean region [2] - Since late January, extreme cold air has swept across many parts of the United States, with a recent cold wave in New York City resulting in 13 fatalities due to freezing conditions [2] - A winter storm recently impacted the southeastern United States, causing cold-affected lizards to fall from trees in Florida, known as the "Sunshine State" [2]

Core Viewpoint - The extreme cold wave affecting multiple regions in the United States has resulted in significant fatalities, particularly in New York City, where 16 deaths have been reported, with 13 attributed to hypothermia [1][2]. Group 1: Impact of Cold Wave - The cold wave is described as potentially the longest period of sub-zero temperatures in New York's history [1][2]. - The fatalities include individuals who were not all homeless, indicating a broader impact on the population [1][2]. Group 2: Response Measures - New York City has activated emergency shelters and deployed 20 vehicles equipped with medical personnel for rescue efforts, with over 930 individuals already placed in shelters as of the morning of February 2 [1][2]. Group 3: Historical Context - Official data indicates that from 2005 to 2020, the annual death toll from cold waves in New York City ranged from 9 to 27, with a notable increase to 34 in 2021 and 54 in 2022 [1][2].