Nationwide: Unprecedented Warmth Envelops the Country in the Coming Days
A much-anticipated shift in weather patterns is set to sweep across the nation in the days ahead, according to AccuWeather meteorologists. A surge of welcome warmth is forecasted to spread from the Midwest and Northeast to the southern United States. As a northward bend in the jet stream takes shape, it will bring sustained warmer conditions and predominantly dry weather to most areas. Temperatures are expected to peak midweek before gradually cooling off toward the weekend.
Following a chilly start to the year with below-average temperatures in the Northern and Central states, the upcoming warm spell is sure to be a relief for many. Meteorologist Grady Gilman noted that areas that have not seen temperatures above freezing for a week or more will finally experience a significant warm-up.
This week, most regions can expect temperatures to be 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit higher than usual for late February, akin to what is typically seen in late March or early April. In some parts of the central United States, temperatures dropped below zero last week, with readings plummeting to below -30 degrees in parts of Nebraska, the Dakotas, and Montana.
As temperatures climb in the Plains and interior Northeast over the weekend, Tuesday’s highs are anticipated to reach the 60s Fahrenheit, marking a substantial increase from the frigid conditions observed the previous week. Meanwhile, the East Coast will also see a warming trend, with temperatures in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit aiding in the melting of any remaining snow and ice.
The warm-up is expected to reach its peak in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast by Wednesday, with temperatures possibly reaching the mid-50s Fahrenheit in cities like New York. However, New England will experience a milder warm-up compared to other regions, with Boston likely to stay in the 40s for afternoon highs.
In the Southeast, cooler temperatures will linger at the start of the week before gradually giving way to warmer conditions. Cities like Charlotte and Nashville are expected to see temperatures rise from the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit into the higher ranges by midweek.
Looking ahead, forecasters caution that temperature fluctuations may occur as February comes to a close and March begins.
The weather continues to fluctuate back and forth between bursts of pleasant, springlike temperatures and cold intrusions, which is typical during the transition periods between seasons. The official first day of meteorological spring is just a week away on March 1, with the spring equinox following a few weeks later on March 20. While the temperatures we are experiencing earlier this week may only offer a preview of what is to come in the upcoming weeks and months, this change in season has been eagerly anticipated by many residents across the country who are tired of the cold. For even higher safety measures and an ad-free experience, consider upgrading to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. By subscribing, you can access advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts to stay informed and prepared. These AccuWeather Alerts™ are triggered by our expert meteorologists who work around the clock to monitor and analyze potential dangerous weather risks, ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones.
