Eastern United States – Another surge of arctic air is expected to impact the eastern United States during the second week of February, bringing dangerously cold temperatures and subzero wind chills to large portions of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.
According to the National Weather Service and the Weather Prediction Center, a significant arctic outbreak is forecast to arrive this weekend, with the coldest conditions expected between February 7 and February 9. Wind chill values during this period may fall well below zero, particularly across the interior Northeast, Great Lakes region and higher elevations of the Mid-Atlantic.
Forecast guidance shows much below normal temperatures persisting into early next week, with cold conditions likely lingering through at least February 11. Some areas may experience temperatures cold enough to challenge daily records, especially where gusty winds further intensify wind chill impacts.
The arrival of the arctic air mass may also bring brief periods of intense snowfall, including the potential for snow squalls, which can rapidly reduce visibility and create hazardous travel conditions on major corridors such as I-80, I-81, I-90 and I-95. Even where snowfall is limited, blowing snow and icy surfaces may pose risks.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that cold weather safety precautions will be critical during this period. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, wear layers and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite. Pets and livestock should be provided with adequate shelter, and steps should be taken now to protect plumbing from freezing.
Officials also caution against traveling or recreating on frozen bodies of water, as ice thickness may be unreliable due to recent temperature fluctuations.
While temperatures are expected to gradually moderate later next week, forecasters stress that winter conditions remain firmly in place across the eastern U.S.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and potential advisories as confidence increases closer to the event.
