Dangerous Arctic Cold Tightens Grip on Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Florida Through Early February

UNITED STATES — A prolonged and dangerous Arctic cold wave is tightening its grip across the Midwest, Ohio Valley, Southeast, and East Coast, with hazardous temperatures expected to persist into early February, according to the latest update from the National Weather Service and Weather Prediction Center.

Forecasters warn this may become one of the longest-lasting extreme cold events in decades for parts of the eastern United States, with impacts expanding south and east as the week progresses.

Another Arctic Surge Arrives Late Thursday

The next phase of this cold outbreak begins late Thursday, as another Arctic blast surges south across the northern Plains, then rapidly spreads east.

Key timing details include:

• Arctic air crossing the Midwest Thursday night
• Reaching the Gulf Coast by Friday night
• Winds intensifying across the Southeast on Saturday as a coastal storm develops near the Carolinas

This setup will significantly increase wind chill danger, especially in areas already dealing with infrastructure stress.

Sub-Zero Wind Chills and Record Lows Expanding East and South

Forecast guidance indicates sub-zero wind chills are likely Friday night, particularly in parts of the South experiencing ongoing power outages.

In addition:

• Daily record low temperatures are expected by Friday across the upper Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic
• The cold expands deeper into the Southeast on Saturday
• The core of the cold focuses across Florida from Sunday through Monday

The accompanying temperature map shows widespread single-digit and sub-zero lows across large portions of the Midwest and interior Northeast, with freezing temperatures extending deep into the South.

Florida Faces Rare, Long-Duration Hard Freezes

One of the most concerning aspects of this event is the Florida cold threat.

According to the NWS:

• Rare, long-duration hard freezes are expected along the Gulf Coast and down the Florida Peninsula
• Coldest conditions are likely Saturday and Sunday nights
• Impacts are expected statewide, especially for vulnerable populations and agriculture

This level of cold is highly unusual for Florida and increases the risk of crop damage, frozen pipes, and prolonged cold exposure.

Cold, Not Snow, Is the Primary Danger

While winter storms may accompany parts of this pattern, forecasters stress that extreme cold itself is the main hazard.

The NWS notes this outbreak could rank among the longest-duration cold events in several decades for portions of the East and Southeast, making preparation critical even in areas that do not typically experience severe winter weather.

Safety Concerns Remain High Through Early February

Officials urge residents across affected regions to take cold-weather precautions:

• Limit time outdoors
• Ensure pets and livestock have adequate protection
• Take steps to prevent frozen pipes
• Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members

WaldronNews Weather Alert

A historic Arctic cold wave is gripping much of the eastern United States, with dangerous temperatures expected to persist into early February. From the Midwest to Florida, this prolonged freeze poses serious risks well beyond typical winter cold.

Stay with WaldronNews for continued updates as this extreme cold pattern evolves and new advisories are issued.