arctic invasion plunges deep and wide across much of the country. the dangerous weather is already causing accidents and travel delays. by thursday more than 222 million americans, that's about 75% of the country, will shiver in temperatures below freezing. more than 300 records could be shattered from the central plains to new england, and as far south as florida. david begnaud is in the thick of it and leads off our coverage tonight. >> reporter: it was a turbulent touchdown in chicago. >> at least it landed. >> reporter: and landed they did, but the flight skidded into the grass at o'hare airport just before 8:00 a.m. >> the conditions here were very bad it was windy and very icy. >> reporter: luis torres coret was a passenger. he credits the pilot. >> we're lucky we had a very competent pilot that knew what to do.