The coldest air of the season is set to engulf much of the Central and Eastern U.S. this week, bringing dangerously low temperatures and life-threatening wind chills that could impact millions. AccuWeather meteorologists warn that the Arctic blast will push temperatures below zero for extended periods in several cities, with extreme cold expected to stretch as far south as the Gulf Coast.
From early to midweek, temperatures are expected to plummet well below seasonal averages, with numerous record-low maximum and minimum temperatures at risk of being broken. According to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Adam Douty, the timing of the cold snap coincides with the climatological peak of winter when temperatures typically reach their lowest levels.
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“Since this is the heart of winter, record-low temperatures are near their lowest values as well,” Douty explained. “This may prevent widespread record-setting temperatures, but some records will likely be broken.”
The most intense cold is expected to grip the northern Plains by Monday, with daytime highs struggling to rise above zero degrees Fahrenheit in parts of the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Overnight lows could plunge to a staggering minus 20 to minus 30 degrees, with cities like Minneapolis expected to remain below zero from Saturday night through Monday morning. The prolonged subzero temperatures will put pressure on power grids as residents crank up heating systems to stay warm.
By Tuesday and Wednesday, the bitter cold will push eastward, impacting major cities like Philadelphia, where daytime temperatures will struggle to reach the upper teens. The last time the city experienced such frigid conditions was in December 2022.
Adding to the danger, strong winds will exacerbate the cold, creating hazardous conditions across much of the Midwest and East Coast. Forecasters predict wind gusts of 20-25 mph, with some areas experiencing gusts of 30-40 mph by midweek, particularly from Montana to Nebraska.
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AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures could plummet to minus 40 to minus 50 degrees in some regions, posing a severe risk of frostbite, hypothermia, and respiratory complications. Douty cautioned that exposed skin can suffer frostbite within minutes under such conditions.
“Anyone venturing outside will need to take extreme precautions,” Douty warned. “Even a slight breeze can drop temperatures to dangerous levels.”
Outdoor workers such as farmers, emergency personnel, and utility crews are advised to take extra precautions and limit exposure where possible.
The extreme cold is expected to disrupt daily life across affected areas, leading to school closures, travel disruptions, and strained energy supplies. AccuWeather Meteorologist Haley Taylor emphasized the potential economic toll, warning that power grids could be stressed under the heightened demand for heating, and certain businesses, such as agriculture and transportation, could suffer financial losses.
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“The cold air will have wide-reaching impacts on everyday life and the economy, such as stressed power grids due to increased heating demands, closed schools, health impacts, and dangerous conditions for those working outdoors,” Taylor said.
Officials are urging residents to prepare for the Arctic blast by:
- Limiting outdoor exposure and dressing in layers of warm clothing.
- Keeping emergency kits stocked with essentials such as blankets, food, and water.
- Ensuring heating systems are functioning properly and taking measures to prevent frozen pipes.
- Checking on vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those without adequate heating.
The cold weather threat is expected to last through the week, with conditions slowly improving by the weekend. Residents are advised to stay informed with the latest updates from weather services and local authorities.
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