AccuWeather forecasters are cautioning that a wave of Arctic air moving into the Plains and East will extend southward across the country, resulting in significantly cooler temperatures reaching as far as the Southeast coast in the upcoming week. This cold pattern will persist as additional surges of cold air sweep southward, bringing brisk Canadian air and temperatures well below normal levels. Widespread temperatures 12-25 degrees Fahrenheit below average for early January are expected to encompass much of the central and eastern United States until at least Jan. 12. If the cold wave intensifies, temperature departures could drop 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit below historical averages from the northern Plains to the interior Southeast in the first half of January, according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Alex Duffus.
The repetitive cold conditions may strain energy usage across the nation, particularly in areas where temperatures remain below freezing for an extended period. Rounds of snow, ice, and gusty winds will accompany the chilly weather in some regions. A significant storm moving across the eastern U.S. is anticipated to bring impactful weather to the mid-Atlantic coast at the beginning of the workweek. Strong winds are expected in the Central states and parts of the Tennessee Valley, while severe thunderstorms are possible along the Gulf coast.
The combination of cold temperatures and blowing winds will lead to lower AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperature values, making conditions feel even colder. Overnight temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing across the Gulf Coast and Southeast this week for the first time this season. Residents in New Orleans can expect a sudden temperature drop after potential severe storms over the weekend, with a drastic decrease from the mid-70s on Sunday to the mid-30s by Monday night.
As the frigid air mass settles in, residents will need to take precautions to keep themselves warm and safe. Frostbite becomes a concern as temperatures fall into the teens and below zero in the Central states. Prolonged heating demand, frozen pipes, low RealFeel® Temperatures, and power outages are all potential risks throughout the week.
Some relief is on the horizon towards the end of the week, with cities like Omaha expected to see temperatures rise above freezing by Thursday or Friday.
Residents in the area can expect to continue experiencing temperatures below 32 degrees for the next several days, with a potential increase in warmth not anticipated until the upcoming weekend. For those seeking an elevated level of safety and information without the distraction of advertisements, a subscription to the Premium+ service on the AccuWeather app offers access to advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts. These AccuWeather Alerts™ are generated by a team of expert meteorologists who diligently monitor and analyze hazardous weather conditions around the clock, ensuring that you and your loved ones remain informed and prepared for any potential risks.
