New York, New York – A powerful Arctic pattern is tightening its grip on New York, setting the stage for a prolonged stretch of dangerous cold that could last well into February. Temperatures this weekend are expected to plunge sharply statewide, with subzero lows across upstate regions and bitter overnight cold pushing into New York City and Long Island.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, long-range outlooks from late January through mid-February strongly favor much below normal temperatures across the Northeast. This same Arctic air mass is driving extreme cold across the Midwest and northern Plains, with parts of Minnesota seeing lows near negative 60 degrees, while reinforcing persistent cold across New York.
Upstate New York faces the greatest risk for sustained subzero temperatures, dangerous wind chills, and periodic lake-effect snow, while downstate areas contend with icy roads and freezing overnight conditions. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain are possible this weekend, especially across the Hudson Valley and southern New York, creating slick travel on I-87, I-90, I-81, and major metro roadways.
The key question is when relief arrives. Current signals point to only brief moderation at times, with no sustained warm-up likely before mid-February. Officials urge residents to limit outdoor exposure, protect pipes, prepare vehicles for extreme cold, and stay alert for additional advisories as this long-duration Arctic outbreak continues to evolve.
