Key Takeaways:
- A triple whammy of winter weather is expected to bring cold snaps to the central and eastern U.S. in the coming weeks
- The first wave of cold air is expected to hit the Midwest and Northeast this week, with temperatures plummeting into the negative single digits and teens
- Two more blasts of frigid temperatures are forecasted for the next two weeks, with subzero temperatures expected in some areas
- It is essential to take precautions to stay safe during the cold snap, including winterizing homes, using generators and heating sources safely, and dressing warmly when going outdoors
Introduction to the Cold Snap
The central and eastern United States are bracing for a prolonged period of cold weather, with three rounds of Arctic air expected to bring cold snaps in the coming weeks. According to meteorologists, the first wave of cold air is already affecting the Midwest, with temperatures expected to plummet into the negative single digits and teens. The cold air is being driven by a displacement of the polar vortex, which is allowing Arctic air to seep into the central and eastern U.S. Renee Duff, AccuWeather senior meteorologist, explained that a second cold outbreak is forecasted for next week, and a third round of frigid air is likely during the middle of the month.
The Polar Vortex and Its Impact
The polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air that surrounds the Earth’s north and south poles. During the winter months, it is common for the polar vortex to expand, pushing cold air from the north pole to the south along the jet stream. This expansion is what is driving the cold air into the central and eastern U.S. The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts that the outbreak this week will be the first of three such rounds, with another cold blast likely next week and a third the week after that. The NWS also warns that low temperatures in the negative single digits and teens may challenge several daily record low temperatures.
Temperature Forecasts and Expected Conditions
The NWS has issued temperature forecasts for the next couple of days, with the central and southern Plains expected to experience highs in the 30s and 40s, while Texas and the Southeast will see highs in the 40s and 50s. Along the Interstate 95 Northeast corridor, temperatures are expected to plunge into the 10s and 20s as the cold air moves east. Subzero temperatures are expected from the Dakotas and Minnesota to Iowa and Nebraska due to the blast of Arctic air. The cold temperatures will bring a range of challenges, including frostbite and hypothermia, and it is essential to take precautions to stay safe.
Staying Safe During the Cold Snap
AccuWeather advises people to complete winterizing their homes and water lines, and to have their furnaces checked and heating oil or propane ordered as soon as possible. The American Red Cross also recommends taking precautions to stay safe if you lose power and your main heat source. This includes only using generators, grills, and camp stoves that are placed outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. It is also essential to use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights instead of candles due to the fire risk and to close off any rooms you don’t need. When using fireplaces and space heaters, it is crucial to keep anything that could catch fire at least 3 feet away from the heat source.
Outdoor Safety Precautions
If you must go outside during the cold snap, it is essential to take precautions to stay safe. The American Red Cross advises keeping as much of your skin covered as possible to avoid frostbite. This includes wearing layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing and a hat, as well as mittens snug at the wrist, which are better than gloves. A ski mask or a scarf can help cover your face, and water-resistant boots can help keep your feet dry. It is also essential to avoid overexertion, which can bring on a heart attack or a more serious medical condition. By taking these precautions, you can help stay safe during the cold snap and minimize the risks associated with the extreme cold weather.
