A powerful Arctic air mass is sweeping across the eastern, central, and parts of the western United States, causing temperatures to plummet 20-30 degrees below the already cold January averages.
This extreme cold wave is expected to trigger a rare and significant winter storm, especially in the southern states, bringing heavy snow, freezing rain, and travel disruptions. Freeze warnings are in effect along the Gulf Coast and northern Florida, as forecasters predict hazardous conditions over the next few days.
Severe Winter Storm Hits the Southern U.S.
According to meteorologists, the storm began late Monday in Texas and is moving eastward along the Gulf Coast. Cities like Austin, San Antonio, Houston, New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Jacksonville are bracing for icy roads, heavy snowfall, and power outages.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Houston has warned residents about deteriorating road conditions, urging them to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Snow and sleet are expected to cover major highways, including Interstate 10, potentially shutting down travel for a prolonged period.
Travel Disruptions and Power Outages Expected
The extreme cold and winter storm are already impacting flights, with Houston’s Bush Airport reporting over 100 cancellations. Both George Bush Intercontinental and William P. Hobby airports have announced closures due to hazardous conditions. Additionally, power outages are likely in areas with heavy snow and ice accumulation.
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves has declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm, with forecasters predicting up to 4 inches of snow in some areas. South-central Georgia and Florida’s Big Bend region could see ice buildup, making roads impassable and causing power failures. Schools in several cities, including Austin and Tallahassee, have already announced closures.
Record-Breaking Cold and Dangerous Wind Chills
The Arctic blast is not only bringing snow and ice but also life-threatening temperatures. In the Upper Midwest, wind chills are expected to drop between -30°F and -55°F. In Washington, D.C., the extreme cold has even led to the first indoor presidential inauguration in 40 years, as temperatures plunged to 27°F.
The deep freeze is expected to continue for much of the eastern and southern U.S., though some areas in the central U.S. may see a slight warm-up by midweek.
California Battles Fierce Santa Ana Winds and Wildfires
While much of the country is dealing with freezing temperatures, California is facing an entirely different challenge—wildfires and strong Santa Ana winds. The Los Angeles area is experiencing extreme fire weather conditions, with wind gusts reaching 100 mph in some regions. Firefighters are working to contain the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have already destroyed over 15,000 structures and claimed at least 27 lives.
Despite the fire threat, Los Angeles is experiencing unseasonably warm weather, with temperatures in the 70s. However, a cold front is expected to bring some relief by the weekend, with a chance of much-needed rain.
The U.S. is facing extreme weather on both ends of the spectrum—dangerous Arctic cold in the east and raging wildfires in the west. The winter storm in the South is set to cause major travel disruptions, power outages, and school closures, while the Midwest endures life-threatening wind chills.
Meanwhile, California remains on high alert as powerful winds fuel devastating wildfires. Whether facing snow, ice, or fire, millions of Americans are preparing for a challenging week ahead.
