A polar vortex disruption is forecast to unleash prolonged Arctic air across large parts of the central and eastern United States, bringing dangerous cold and below-average temperatures through late January, according to forecasters.
The National Weather Service said temperatures are expected to plunge sharply beginning this weekend, with the cold air mass spreading eastward and southward into early next week.
How Cold Will It Get?
The National Weather Service predicts that by Saturday:
- Temperatures will fall below 10°F (-12°C) across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest
- Highs will remain in the teens across the central Plains and Midwest
- Some southern states could see daytime highs near 30°F
- The cold front is expected to reach the East Coast and Southeast by Monday
Meteorologists warn that the prolonged nature of the cold could increase energy demand and strain infrastructure.
Northern Plains and Great Lakes Most Affected
The coldest conditions are expected across the Northern Plains and Great Lakes region. Weather analyst Pogodnik said states including North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Michigan will sit at the core of the Arctic outbreak.
Daily highs may struggle to climb out of the teens, while overnight lows could drop to −10°F to −25°F (−23°C to −32°C).
Major metro areas such as Minneapolis, Fargo, Duluth, Green Bay, and Chicago should prepare for extended sub-freezing conditions, higher heating demand, and possible disruptions.
As the Arctic plume pushes east, Upstate New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine are also expected to see a sharp temperature drop.
Southern Plains and Southeast Not Spared
According to Zack Taylor from the Weather Prediction Center, areas as far south as the Southern Plains could experience sub-zero wind chills starting Sunday night.
Other forecasts suggest parts of the Southeast, including Atlanta and Nashville, may see temperatures fall into the 30s or lower, especially overnight. Some models even indicate northern Florida could dip into the 20s.
Snow and Ice Threat in the South
Forecasters are also monitoring another storm system expected to develop Monday night in parts of Texas. According to Taylor, the system could stretch toward the Gulf Coast, bringing a risk of snow and ice to parts of the southern United States.
Residents in affected regions are urged to monitor forecasts closely and prepare for hazardous winter conditions.
