A Wind Chill Advisory is in effect, as the combination of very cold temperatures and brisk west-to-northwest winds will produce wind chills of 20 below to 30 below zero. Temperatures early this week will be 15 to 25 degrees below average. The arctic blast is expected to bring life-threatening temperatures and major travel disruptions across parts of the United States over the next few days. With snow forecasted in areas from the Midwest to the Northeast, air travelers should brace for delays and cancellations as airports struggle to keep up with the demand. Those planning on flying may expect delays or cancellations due to the arctic weather situation unfolding across the country at present.
A surge of Arctic air behind a cold front crossing the U.S. through the week will bring widespread, dangerous wind chill temperatures through much of the central U.S. and a potential flash freeze from the mid-South to the East Coast. A major winter storm will form on this front bringing heavy snow and high winds creating blizzard conditions for parts of the Plains into the Great Lakes. Strong winds will hit “nearly the entire eastern half of the U.S. as this large system becomes fully mature by Thursday night.
The cold snap is caused by an extended high-pressure system stretching from western Canada toward the northern Plains. According to the National Weather Service, this powerful arctic system will bring “very cold air” across a wide area, with potential record lows expected in some areas.
In some states, temperatures will drop into the single digits and even below zero Fahrenheit—dangerously low levels that can lead to hypothermia or frostbite if exposed for too long. In anticipation of these extreme conditions, several states have already issued warnings, with many local governments offering advice on how best to stay safe in such frigid weather.
Airlines are already taking preventative steps—such as adding extra flights and additional staff—to limit potential delays or cancellations due to bad weather. Amtrak has also shifted its schedule ahead of any possible weather disruptions. Those expecting to fly can expect turbulence along their journey, as freezing temperatures can make it harder for aircraft to ascend or descend quickly enough.
In addition, snowfall associated with this storm could further hinder travel plans in cities like Detroit and Chicago, where roads are known to get overwhelmed during winter. Road crews may be dispatched around town to help clear away any snow buildup, but commuters should still plan for longer trips than usual when traveling through these regions during a snowstorm.
