U.S. Reports More Than 83,700 New COVID-19 Cases Two Days In A Row

The transcript discusses the surge in COVID-19 cases in the US over a weekend, with numbers reaching new highs compared to previous records. Health experts predict a challenging winter with potential six-digit daily cases. The University of Washington forecasts the death toll could exceed 318,000 by January. The US leads globally in reported COVID-19 cases and deaths.

What do researchers at the University of Washington forecast for the COVID-19 death toll by January 1st?

What is the total number of reported COVID-19 infections and deaths in the US as mentioned in the text?