A series of winter storms is expected to hit the East Coast over the weekend and into next week, bringing heavy snow and cold temperatures to many states. These storms are caused by the coldest air of the season moving across the United States, with Arctic air from Siberia even reaching southern areas that usually stay warm.
The first storm will begin on Saturday, bringing a mix of rain and snow to parts of the Midwest and Northeast. Cities like Indianapolis, Detroit, and Cleveland could see 1 to 3 inches of snow. The storm will then move into the interior Northeast, with another stronger storm forming in the central Appalachians. This second storm will bring snow to inland areas, with rain mixing in closer to the coast. Snowfall amounts will vary, with 1 to 3 inches expected from Washington, D.C., to New England, and 3 to 6 inches expected west of I-95. This storm will wrap up by Monday morning, except for far northern New England.
The weather will be especially cold, with wind chills making it feel as cold as -50°F in some places by Monday morning. This will increase the risk of hypothermia and frostbite for people who are outside for extended periods. The National Weather Service has advised anyone planning to be outdoors to carry a cold weather survival kit.
The southern U.S. will also experience a round of snow and ice. Starting Monday evening, a storm will develop in central Texas and spread eastward by Tuesday morning. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain could affect areas as far south as northern Florida. “Even snowbirds in the South will feel this cold weather,” said meteorologist Britta Merwin.
By Monday, more than 300 million people in the U.S. will experience temperatures below average. The combination of cold air and wind will make it feel much colder. In Washington, D.C., temperatures will drop into the teens on Sunday night and will stay in the 20s on Inauguration Day, making it the coldest inauguration since 1985.
This harsh weather is not expected to end soon, as meteorologists predict more cold air will continue to impact the U.S. throughout the end of January.
