URGENT UPDATE: A severe winter storm, dubbed the “Arctic Blast,” is unleashing deadly subzero temperatures across the United States, with impacts being felt from the Midwest to the East Coast. As of Friday, December 1, 2023, record-breaking low temperatures have already hit more than a dozen cities, prompting dire warnings for millions.
The first wave of Arctic air, which began sweeping through the central and eastern US on Thursday, is plunging temperatures to dangerous levels. Meteorologist Renee Duff warns, “The week will end with some of the coldest air of the season so far, as a front advances from the Midwest into the Northeast and mid-Atlantic.” Wind chills in parts of New Hampshire have plummeted to a staggering -31 degrees Fahrenheit.
Areas south of the Washington D.C. metro region have already reported as much as three inches of snow, illustrating the storm’s reach. This Arctic weather event is not a one-time occurrence; it is the first of three cold fronts expected throughout December. “A second cold outbreak is in the forecast next week, and a third round of frigid air is likely during the middle of the month,” Duff added.
While temperatures may rise slightly on Saturday and Sunday, particularly in the Northeast, the respite will be short-lived. In the upper Midwest and Central Plains, daily highs may struggle to break above the teens on Sunday. Cities such as Boston, Philadelphia, and New York are poised for another plunge in temperatures by 10-15 degrees come Monday.
The impending cold front will push southeast, leading to temperatures dipping to 10 to 25 degrees below average early next week. Meteorologist Tony Fracasso emphasized that “The cold air will be transient,” but it will still result in a significant chill for the northern half of the US for the first weeks of December.
Residents are urged to prepare for extreme cold and hazardous conditions. Authorities recommend staying indoors, dressing in layers, and keeping emergency supplies handy. With millions affected, the urgency is clear: this Arctic Blast is a serious threat that demands immediate attention.
Stay tuned for further updates as this winter weather system develops throughout the week.
