Here’s a detailed look at what’s unfolding across the country and how it might impact you.

Dangerously Cold Temperatures Across the U.S.

A frigid arctic airmass has blanketed much of the U.S., sending temperatures plummeting to levels 20–30 degrees below seasonal averages. From the Rockies to the East Coast, the mercury is dropping to life-threatening lows:

• Northern Plains/Upper Midwest: Highs in the negative teens and single digits. Wind chills of 30 to 55 degrees below zero pose severe risks of frostbite and hypothermia.
• Midwest and Rockies: Single-digit and teen temperatures, with sub-zero wind chills extending into the Ohio Valley.
• Southeast and Gulf Coast: Even typically mild regions aren’t spared. Freeze Warnings are in effect along the Gulf Coast and northern Florida, with sub-freezing lows threatening vegetation and exposed plumbing.

What to Watch: These frigid conditions are expected to persist across much of the eastern and southern U.S. through midweek. Meanwhile, a slight reprieve will bring more seasonable highs to the northern and central Plains starting Tuesday.

Rare Winter Storm Hits Gulf Coast and Southeast

A developing low-pressure system colliding with cold air has created a rare setup for a significant winter storm in the Gulf Coast and Southeast regions. This unusual weather pattern is already making headlines:

• Timing: Impacts begin Monday evening in southern and eastern Texas, moving eastward through the Gulf Coast and Southeast by Tuesday and Wednesday.
• What to Expect:
  • Heavy snow along and north of the I-10 corridor.
  • Sleet and freezing rain in parts of southern Texas, southeast Georgia, and northern Florida.
• Risks:
  • Major travel disruptions, flight delays, and cancellations.
  • Power outages in areas hit by significant snow and ice.
  • Compounded difficulties due to the extreme cold.

Why It Matters: These regions are unaccustomed to severe winter weather, amplifying the storm’s potential impact on infrastructure, travel, and safety.

Fire Weather Risks in Southern California

While much of the U.S. shivers, southern California faces a different kind of threat: fire weather. Strong winds and low humidity create critical wildfire conditions, particularly in the San Gabriel and Santa Monica Mountains.

• Forecast Highlights:
  • Gusts of up to 60 mph in lower elevations and 75+ mph in foothills.
  • Storm Prediction Center has issued an “Extremely Critical Risk” for ongoing fire-prone areas.
• Why It’s Dangerous: The combination of dry conditions, high winds, and mild temperatures (50s–60s) exacerbates fire risks, posing a serious threat to already vulnerable regions.

Lake-Effect Snow and Regional Snowfall

The Great Lakes region is no stranger to snow, and this week will see no exception:

• Persistent northwesterly flow will generate heavy lake-effect snow in downwind areas.
• An upper-level wave will bring additional snow showers to the central and southern Rockies and Plains on Monday.
• A clipper system will sweep in from Canada, delivering snow showers to the northern Rockies, Plains, and Upper Midwest by Tuesday night.

What This Means for You

1. Plan Ahead:
   • For those in the Gulf Coast and Southeast, avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for power outages.
   • In frigid areas, limit time outdoors and bundle up to avoid frostbite or hypothermia.
2. Stay Updated:
   • Monitor local forecasts for evolving conditions, particularly in areas expecting heavy snow, ice, or fire weather risks.
3. Prepare Your Home:
   • Protect pipes in freeze-prone areas.
   • Check emergency supplies, from flashlights to fire safety tools.