Over 95 million Americans are warned of severe cold and winter storms as arctic air moves south. The East Coast may see heavy snowfall, with New York City and Boston expecting significant accumulations. Additionally, the Gulf Coast could experience unusual winter weather, prompting preparation for travel disruptions and power issues.
Over 95 million Americans are on high alert as brutal cold temperatures and severe winter weather are forecasted for the coming days. Arctic air is predicted to sweep down across the country, leading to a winter storm expected to produce significant snowfall in major cities along the East Coast this weekend. Winter storm warnings from the mid-Atlantic to the Northeast have been issued, with New York City anticipating 4 to 6 inches of snow on Sunday, potentially marking the largest snowfall in nearly three years.
Boston is also expecting a mix of rain and snow, transitioning to all snow by evening, with totals reaching up to 6 inches. Washington, D.C. is forecasted to receive 2 to 4 inches of wet snow, likely freezing overnight, while Philadelphia anticipates a slushy accumulation of 3 to 4 inches. The majority of snowfall is expected in the afternoon and evening, particularly affecting travel along the Interstate 95 corridor from Baltimore to Boston.
Furthermore, an extreme cold warning has been issued for North Dakota, northern Minnesota, and northwestern Wisconsin, where wind chills may drop as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit. This level of cold poses the risk of frostbite on exposed skin within just five minutes. Other cities such as Minneapolis and Chicago will experience similarly severe temperatures ranging from -20 to -30 degrees Fahrenheit. Even New York City is expected to approach below-zero temperatures by Tuesday.
Another significant winter event is anticipated to initiate Monday night and persist through Tuesday, affecting the Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida. Snow and ice are predicted, leading to considerable travel disruptions on Tuesday and Wednesday. Areas of central and southern Louisiana, as well as southeastern Texas, may see snow accumulations exceeding 4 inches, while the vicinity from Lake Charles to Alexandria, Louisiana, could see over 6 inches of snow.
Ice accumulation due to freezing rain along the coast, including in Houston, poses risks of widespread travel disruptions and power outages. These extreme cold temperatures are unusual for the region, potentially causing icy conditions that extend through mid-week. Houston and New Orleans, cities typically unaccustomed to snowfall, may experience measurable snow beginning Monday night. Houston last recorded significant snowfall in 2021 and has not seen more than 1 inch since 2008, while New Orleans has not had measurable snow since 2009.
Preparations for this impending storm must be made promptly, as the potential for winter precipitation along the Gulf Coast has become increasingly real.
As winter descends upon the United States, an influx of arctic air is contributing to dangerously low temperatures and significant snowfall across various regions. The severity of the cold snap particularly threatens millions of residents, as forecasts predict extreme conditions, especially for areas usually sheltered from such weather phenomena. This article highlights regional impacts, including snowfall amounts, associated warnings, and the historical context of snowfall in southern cities less frequently impacted by winter weather.
In summary, over 95 million Americans face imminent brutal cold temperatures and significant snowfall due to a southward plunge of arctic air. Major cities, particularly along the East Coast, are set for substantial snowfall over the weekend, while some regions along the Gulf Coast may experience rare winter weather events. Residents must prepare for potential disruptions in travel and power outages as these extreme conditions unfold.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
