Winter Weather Hits the U.S. Hard
Buffalo, NY – Winter’s grip is tightening across the United States as a powerful lake-effect snowstorm blankets areas near the Great Lakes. This severe weather has left many communities struggling to cope with the heavy snowfall.
In addition to the snow, an influx of arctic air is pushing temperatures down to freezing levels, reaching as far south as the Southeast. This cold snap is making it feel even chillier in many regions, particularly in the northern Plains where temperatures have dipped below zero.
Meteorologist Ari Sarsalari noted that while mornings are extremely cold, afternoons can bring a slight relief. "Yes, this is cold air," he explained, "but after a morning where the temperature is near-zero, getting up to around 30 degrees in the afternoon doesn’t feel quite as harsh."
The Midwest is also facing frigid conditions, with cities like Minneapolis experiencing single-digit temperatures early Sunday. Starting Monday, stronger winds accompanying the arctic front are expected, potentially making it feel even colder.
As the cold air sweeps southward, cities in the Southeast are experiencing their first freeze of the season. “What’s notable is how far south this cold air is reaching,” Sarsalari remarked. In fact, locations like Tallahassee, Florida, registered temperatures below freezing this past Sunday morning.
Forecasts indicate that this cold spell will persist for several days, with continuous waves of arctic air moving into the United States. According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, much of the eastern half is set to see below-average temperatures for the foreseeable future, particularly in the Northeast and New England.
As these winter conditions settle in, it’s essential for residents to stay prepared and be cautious, ensuring their safety during this challenging time.