The chances of a widespread, prolonged January thaw are dwindling, as the Arctic air is expected to maintain its grip on the Midwest and Northeast for the rest of the month, according to meteorologists at AccuWeather.
“Multiple waves of Arctic air are building up over northern Canada and are headed towards the central and eastern United States in the coming days and weeks,” stated Paul Pastelok, Lead Long-Range Meteorologist at AccuWeather.
While this week’s weather pattern won’t be favorable for major storms, it will lead to heavy lake-effect snow near the Great Lakes and occasional snow squalls in the Midwest and Northeast.
The cold air will bring a significant chill to the Southeast and parts of the South Central states, posing risks such as frozen pipes and higher heating costs.
Compared to previous years, January has been noticeably colder. Last January, temperatures in Minneapolis, Chicago, and New York City were well above historical averages, but this year they are significantly below, ranging from 4 to 16 degrees lower.
Despite the cold conditions, this January is milder than January 2018 when temperatures were much lower than historical averages.
The freezing temperatures will enhance ice fishing opportunities in the northern regions, while ski resorts will benefit from the cold weather to supplement snow production.
Although the cold weather is favorable for winter sports, it will be challenging for commuters and delivery workers due to frigid conditions at bus stops and train platforms.
A particularly cold Arctic air mass is expected around January 15th, with the potential to be the coldest so far this winter, affecting a vast region with fresh snow cover in the eastern U.S.
AccuWeather meteorologists predict stormy weather from January 18-20, with significant storms likely to move from the South Central states towards the Great Lakes or the Northeast, depending on their tracks.
Before the end of the month, another Arctic blast is anticipated from January 20-24, potentially affecting much of the Central and Eastern states.
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A powerful surge of cold air looms on the horizon, poised to exceed the chilling conditions experienced through January 15th in terms of both scope and intensity. Consequently, the average monthly temperatures are anticipated to plummet well below the benchmarks set by recent Januarys.
Following the substantial Arctic incursion from January 20th to 24th, a gradual warming trend is forecasted to take hold across a significant portion of the Central and Eastern United States, maintaining its grip well into the month of February, according to meteorologist Anderson.
In the interim, consumers are advised to brace themselves for continued high expenses associated with heating their residences and commercial establishments. Furthermore, individuals venturing outdoors will find themselves compelled to don multiple layers of insulating clothing to stave off the biting cold.
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