An Arctic air mass gripping the eastern two-thirds of the United States is bringing record-breaking cold and life-threatening wind chills that will persist through Friday. Temperatures combined with strong winds are creating wind chills as low as 30 degrees below zero in some regions, posing severe risks to health and safety.
According to the National Weather Service, the Upper Midwest and Northeast will experience the harshest conditions, with sub-zero wind chills capable of causing frostbite in minutes. Record overnight lows and dangerously cold afternoon highs are forecast as far south as the Gulf Coast and Southeast. Major cities across the Ohio Valley, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast are also bracing for bitter cold and icy conditions through the week.
Officials warn residents to take immediate precautions, including limiting time outdoors, bundling up in multiple layers, and keeping pets indoors. Protecting exposed plumbing is essential to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Travelers are urged to carry emergency cold-weather supplies and monitor local road conditions, as icy patches are expected on key highways across affected regions.
The cold air is expected to gradually retreat over the weekend, with temperatures returning to seasonal norms by early next week. However, the Arctic blast will leave behind several days of record-breaking cold that could disrupt travel and daily life.
Stay updated with the latest weather alerts and safety tips by visiting weather.gov and checking local forecasts regularly.
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