Boston, Massachusetts – A widespread and dangerous cold outbreak is gripping the entire East Coast from Maine to Georgia, with prolonged freezing temperatures expected to persist into early February.
According to the NOAA Weather Prediction Center, much of the eastern United States will remain continuously below freezing, with overnight lows in the single digits and below zero across New England and the Mid-Atlantic, and teens to single digits extending south through the Carolinas and Georgia.
Wind chills are worsening the danger, with subzero values common from Maine through Pennsylvania, and wind chills dipping into the single digits and teens as far south as Georgia. Forecasters warn that hypothermia and frostbite are possible even without strong winds, especially during overnight and early-morning hours.
The Weather Prediction Center notes that areas north of a broad boundary stretching through the Southeast will remain frozen through at least February 1, creating an extended risk of frozen pipes, water main breaks, and energy strain. This is particularly concerning in regions still recovering from recent winter storms and power outages.
Another reinforcing surge of arctic air is expected late this week, pushing the cold deeper into the Southeast and potentially delivering record or near-record low temperatures in parts of the East. Some locations may experience the longest stretch of freezing temperatures in years.
Road conditions may remain hazardous due to refreezing moisture and black ice, especially overnight. Officials urge residents to limit unnecessary travel, particularly during early-morning commutes.
These conditions pose heightened risks for commuters, outdoor workers, the elderly, unhoused populations, and those without reliable heat.
Residents along the East Coast are urged to dress in layers, limit time outdoors, bring pets indoors, protect pipes, and check on vulnerable neighbors as the deep freeze continues.
