This weekend, a significant weather pattern change is set to sweep across the United States, bringing with it some of the coldest temperatures we’ve seen in years. As we brace for this Arctic blast, we’ll also be keeping an eye on potential winter storms that could impact various regions.
Key Takeaways
- Expect one of the coldest Januarys in decades.
- Wildfires in California are currently a major concern.
- A significant winter storm may hit the Midwest and Northeast soon.
Current Weather Overview
Right now, the weather across the lower 48 states is relatively calm. Most areas are enjoying plenty of sunshine, with only a few clouds in the Midwest and some light snow showers in the Northeast. However, the West Coast is facing a different story, as wildfires are raging in the Los Angeles area due to high winds and low humidity. Fortunately, conditions for these fires are expected to improve later this week.
The Coming Cold Snap
As we move into the weekend, a drastic change is on the horizon. The jet stream is set to dip down into the Pacific Northwest and Northern Plains, which will usher in a wave of Arctic air. This means we can expect a significant drop in temperatures across much of the country.
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- Cold Front Movement: A typical cold front will sweep through the Midwest and Ohio Valley, bringing colder air with it.
- Arctic Blast: By late weekend, we’ll see a massive Arctic blast that could lead to the coldest weather of the year, especially in the Northern and Central Plains.
What To Expect
- Temperatures: By Sunday, temperatures could plummet to subzero levels in the Upper Midwest and Northern Plains. The freezing line may even dip down into Texas.
- Wind Chill: Wind chills could reach as low as -40°F in some areas, posing a risk for frostbite.
Potential Winter Storms
In addition to the cold, we’re also watching for winter storms that could develop over the next week. Here’s what we know so far:
- Storm Formation: A significant storm is expected to form across the Deep South, moving into the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes region.
- Snowfall Predictions: While exact snowfall amounts are still uncertain, areas in the Northeast and Ohio Valley could see 3 to 6 inches of snow.
