A powerful Arctic Blast is forecast to hit the US in December, bringing the coldest temperatures of the season and affecting roughly 235 million Americans, according to the National Weather Service and reports by USA Today.
This historic cold wave is expected to sweep across the northern and eastern parts of the country, causing widespread disruptions and plunging temperatures well below normal for this time of year.
Arctic blast: Which regions will be affected?
As reported by USA Today, the initial burst of cold air would primarily impact the Midwest and Great Lakes, but it is only a precursor to a more intense freeze expected by mid-December. Meteorologists like MIT climatologist Judah Cohen warn that this upcoming “stretched” polar vortex will bring harsh but relatively short-lived Arctic cold reminiscent of the record-breaking Buffalo blizzard of December 2022. The cold outbreak could last a few weeks but will be intense, especially for areas east of the Rockies.
The likelihood of significant snow and cold weather extending into the US south and Gulf Coast by late January or early February is also possible due to a southward shift of the polar vortex, AccuWeather reported.
US winter forecast: Colder than average temperatures expected
However, the December blast is expected to produce notably colder-than-average temperatures from the Central and Northern US to the Northeast coast, with some areas experiencing sustained freezing conditions and lake-effect snow around the Great Lakes.
These frigid conditions will bring major challenges to millions of Americans. Millions will feel the impact of the Arctic air as temperatures plunge, causing the coldest December chills in years. The cold air will likely bring hazardous travel conditions, increased energy demand, and risks to vulnerable populations, Weather.com reported.