A blast of Arctic air will send freezing temperatures across the central and eastern U.S. this weekend. Parts of the Great Lakes and Northeast could see several feet of snow during this busy travel period.
The northern Plains and Midwest will face the coldest conditions. Highs will hover in the single digits to 20s, with dangerously low wind chills. By Saturday morning, about 196 million Americans will experience below-freezing temperatures, according to Weather.com.
Forecasters warn the Arctic front will drop temperatures 10–20 degrees below average. Even areas accustomed to cold weather will feel its sting.
Frostbite Risks and Snow Emergencies
Wind chills could drop as low as -30°F in North Dakota and Alaska, causing frostbite in just 10 minutes. In Michigan, icy roads prompted warnings for safe driving during Black Friday shopping. Erie, Pennsylvania, declared a snow emergency, limiting parking and restricting highway speeds.
New York officials expect up to 6 feet of snow in some areas. Crews have begun plowing, and commercial vehicle bans are in place on major routes.
Airports are deicing planes to ensure safe travel, with no major delays reported. Across the Great Lakes, snow rates may hit 5 inches per hour, making travel nearly impossible in some areas.
Freezing Temperatures Reach the South
Freeze warnings stretch from Texas to Florida and the Carolinas, with lows near 30°F. Residents are urged to protect plants, pets, and pipes. Light to moderate snow is expected across the central Appalachians and parts of Michigan.
Meanwhile, rain and thunderstorms will hit Florida and the Gulf Coast as the Arctic air moves in, dropping temperatures further.