Coldest Air in Nine Months Sweeps Across U.S., Freezing 76% of the Country as Arctic Blast Tightens Winter Grip
BIRMINGHAM, AL — A powerful Arctic air mass is gripping much of the United States this week, bringing the coldest widespread temperatures in nine months and freezing conditions to more than three-quarters of the nation. Forecasters say this early December cold snap marks the firm arrival of winter, with another front expected to follow closely behind later in the week.
Widespread Freeze Covers 76% of the Nation
According to meteorologists, the HRRR forecast model shows morning lows dipping well below freezing across a vast portion of the country on Tuesday. From the Great Plains to the Midwest, Northern Rockies, and even into parts of the South, temperatures are expected to plummet into the teens and 20s.
Forecasters note that 76% of the continental United States will experience freezing or sub-freezing conditions, making it the most extensive cold coverage since early March. Northern states including Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin are projected to see temperatures as low as 5 to 10 degrees, while parts of Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri could hover in the mid-teens by dawn.
Southern States Experience Sharp Temperature Drop
The Arctic front isn’t sparing the South either. States such as Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama, and Georgia are bracing for a sharp temperature drop, with lows expected in the upper 20s to low 30s. In cities like Dallas, Little Rock, and Birmingham, morning frost and icy winds will make it feel even colder.
The Gulf Coast region, including southern Mississippi and the Florida Panhandle, will stay just above freezing but could still experience morning lows in the mid-40s, signaling one of the season’s most significant cold pushes to date.
Meteorologists warn that sensitive plants and outdoor plumbing could be at risk in areas unaccustomed to extended cold. Residents are urged to cover outdoor pipes, bring pets indoors, and limit exposure to early-morning wind chills.
Another Cold Front Expected to Arrive Thursday
As temperatures begin to moderate slightly midweek, forecasters say another surge of cold air is right behind this one. A second front arriving by Thursday is expected to reinforce the chill across much of the Midwest and South, keeping daytime highs well below seasonal averages.
The upcoming front will also carry a risk of light snow or flurries across parts of the Midwest and Tennessee Valley, though accumulation is expected to remain minimal. For most of the U.S., it means an extended stretch of cold, dry, and breezy weather lasting through the weekend.
Winter’s Early Grip Felt Nationwide
Meteorologists say this widespread chill is a strong sign that winter has arrived early across the continental United States. The cold air mass, combined with clear skies and light winds overnight, has created ideal conditions for rapid temperature drops, pushing freezing temperatures deep into southern regions rarely affected this early in December.
If you’re feeling the chill in your area, how cold has it gotten this week? Share your photos and local weather updates with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
