by United States – A sweeping Arctic blast is forecast to impact more than 100 million Americans this weekend, bringing dangerously cold temperatures, strong winds, and early winter conditions from the Midwest through the Northeast. The frigid air mass, moving south from Canada, will push daytime highs into the 30s and 40s and may send nighttime lows below freezing in as many as 35 states.
Midwest Prepares for Early Winter
Residents in Chicago, Illinois, are bracing for an “early taste of winter” with lake effect snow expected near Lake Michigan, creating hazardous travel conditions. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns of localized accumulations and slippery roads Sunday and Monday.
In Indiana, temperatures could drop below 25°F, with wind chills between 10–15°F, alongside wind-driven snow flurries through early next week. Indianapolis forecasters urge residents to prepare for the sudden onset of wintry weather.
Northern Plains and Great Lakes Face Snow and Freeze
Parts of North Dakota may see over one inch of snow between Friday and Saturday morning, while South Dakota could exceed two inches. Sioux Falls forecasters caution residents about heavy rain and snow, combined with sharply falling temperatures.
In Michigan, areas surrounding Detroit and Mount Pleasant are expected to experience the first measurable snow of the season, with accumulations of an inch or more. Meanwhile, Ohio cities may see light snow showers mainly affecting grassy and elevated surfaces.
Northeast Feels Bitter Chill
While much of the Northeast will initially experience rain on Friday night, dry conditions are expected Saturday, giving a brief reprieve before colder air arrives early next week. Mount Holly, New Jersey, recorded the coldest morning of the season on Friday. In the Washington, D.C. metro area, a frost advisory is in effect, although milder weekend temperatures are expected.
Southeast Also Faces Unseasonable Cold
Even the Southeast will not escape the Arctic chill. Forecasts indicate that temperatures could be 15–25 degrees below average in interior areas by Monday. In Atlanta, Georgia, highs on Monday may reach only the mid-40s, more than 20 degrees below normal for mid-November.
In Florida, the unusual cold could cause a strange phenomenon: falling iguanas. When temperatures drop below 40°F, cold-blooded reptiles lose muscle control and may fall from trees. Experts caution the public not to touch cold-stunned iguanas, as they may react defensively once they warm up.
Travel and Safety Precautions
Meteorologists advise residents across the affected regions to prepare for icy roads, reduced visibility, and strong wind gusts. Drivers should exercise caution, keep emergency kits in their vehicles, and monitor local forecasts.
This early winter blast serves as a warning of harsher conditions to come, with the potential for snowstorms and further record-low temperatures across the northern United States.
Have you felt the freeze yet? Share your photos and experiences of this early Arctic blast in the comments below!
