Arctic Deep Freeze Brings Snow and Floods to U.S.
Arctic deep freeze conditions are gripping the United States this weekend, leading to harsh winter weather across various regions. Nearly 49 million individuals are currently under cold weather alerts, spanning from the Northern Plains to the Southeast. Notable cities affected include Minneapolis, Chicago, St. Louis, Nashville, and New Orleans.
Extreme Cold Temperatures Expected
Dangerously low wind chills are forecasted, prompting alerts from the National Weather Service that extend into Monday morning. The most severe temperatures will reach the Northern Plains and Midwest, with overnight lows potentially dropping to -25 degrees Fahrenheit. In states like North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, wind chill factors may make temperatures feel like -30 to -35 degrees.
This extreme cold is anticipated to push into the Northeast and Southeast by Sunday night. By Monday, cities may see temperatures in the teens, 20s, and 30s, but wind chills could create a sensation of being approximately 10 degrees colder than actual air temperatures.
Record Lows on the Horizon
- Indianapolis
- Charleston, SC
- Mobile
- Savannah
- Baton Rouge
- Tupelo
- Myrtle Beach
These cities may experience record lows over the coming nights. Daytime highs throughout much of the eastern U.S. are expected to remain 10 to 35 degrees below average, particularly in the Northern Plains where daytime temperatures may hover below zero on Saturday.
Snowfall Sweeps Across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic
An intense winter system is also affecting the Midwest, where 58 million residents are under winter alerts. A rapid-moving weather clipper is bringing heavy snow and gusty winds to the region. Cities such as the Quad Cities, Indianapolis, and Philadelphia are among those facing winter weather conditions.
Snow showers began impacting areas of Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana on Saturday morning. The storm is projected to move through the Midwest by Saturday afternoon, reaching the Ohio Valley and Appalachians by evening. Snowfall totals in central Iowa and Illinois are expected to range from 2 to 5 inches, with the central Appalachians potentially seeing higher amounts.
Impacts Along the I-95 Corridor
The I-95 corridor, stretching from Washington D.C. to Boston, is forecasted to receive 1 to 4 inches of snow, with localized higher totals possible in New Jersey and Long Island. Lake-effect snow warnings are in effect, with accumulations of up to 14 inches expected downwind of Lake Erie and Ontario. Wind gusts reaching 35 mph may exacerbate travel conditions.
Flooding Concerns in the Northwest
The Northwest region has faced significant river flooding due to prior rain, although a dry spell is expected on Saturday due to high-pressure systems. Flooding remains a concern, especially in western Washington.
Rain is projected to return on Sunday, with a new storm system expected to bring heavy precipitation and high winds from Monday into Tuesday.
As winter weather continues to unfold, residents in affected areas should remain vigilant and stay updated on changing conditions.
