Takeaways:
- Arctic air is sweeping across the U.S., bringing dangerously cold temperatures.
- Over 70% of the U.S. population will experience freezing conditions.
- The extreme cold may cause disruptions, including threats to agriculture and risks to health.
A wave of brutally cold Arctic air is set to grip the eastern two-thirds of the United States, plunging temperatures to their coldest levels of the season. As freezing conditions spread, millions will need to prepare for a week of extreme winter weather.
The Cold Front Begins
The first wave of Arctic air arrived in the north-central U.S. on Wednesday, with temperatures rapidly dropping. By the weekend, the icy grip will extend south and east, affecting areas from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast. While much of the country braces for the cold, the West will remain largely unaffected, continuing its trend of milder winters.
Key Temperature Highlights:
- Chicago’s high temperature will hover in the low 20s by Friday, roughly 10 degrees below average.
- Kansas City, St. Louis, and Cincinnati will struggle to reach freezing temperatures.
- Northern North Dakota may see lows plummet to 25 degrees below zero.
Wind chills will make the cold even more dangerous, with breezy conditions exacerbating the impact. Residents in cities like Atlanta, Raleigh, and Boston should prepare for temperatures to feel like the teens by Saturday morning.
Record-Low Temperatures Threaten the Southeast
Even typically warm regions are not immune to this Arctic blast. Orlando, Florida, which usually enjoys highs in the low 70s in January, might not surpass 60 degrees on Saturday. Along the Gulf Coast, temperatures are expected to dip below freezing, a rare occurrence in cities like New Orleans.
This sharp drop in temperatures could have far-reaching effects, including threats to Florida’s citrus crops and cold-sensitive wildlife like iguanas, which may become immobilized and fall from trees.
What’s Next: A Colder Week Ahead
The weekend’s chill is merely the precursor to a more severe Arctic blast expected next week. Starting Monday, the central U.S. will experience a new wave of cold air, pushing temperatures 10 to 30 degrees below average. By Tuesday, this frigid air will extend across the eastern two-thirds of the country.
Potential Impacts:
- Overnight lows below freezing along the Gulf Coast.
- Dangerous wind chills posing health risks for those without heat or shelter.
- Prolonged cold increasing the likelihood of snow and ice in typically milder regions.
Snow and Ice Threat Looms
While cold air does not guarantee snow, the atmosphere will be primed for winter storms. A disruptive system is expected to develop over the weekend and early next week, potentially impacting areas from the central Plains to the mid-Atlantic. Details on the storm’s exact track and severity will become clearer in the coming days, but preparation is essential for those in its path.
Staying Safe During Extreme Cold
To stay safe during this Arctic blast, consider the following tips:
- Dress in layers and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite.
- Limit time outdoors, especially during periods of extreme wind chills.
- Ensure access to reliable heat and check on vulnerable neighbors or family members.
- Protect pipes, plants, and pets from freezing temperatures.
Conclusion
This Arctic cold front is shaping up to be a defining weather event for early 2025. With widespread freezing conditions and the potential for snow and ice, staying informed and prepared is critical to navigating the challenges ahead.