Arctic Blast to Bring Widespread Freezing Temperatures Across the Southeast, Affecting Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas
IRMINGHAM, AL — A powerful Arctic front is sweeping across the Southeast United States, sending temperatures plunging into the 20s and low 30s early Wednesday morning. States including Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas are preparing for one of their coldest mornings of the season, with officials warning residents to take extra precautions to protect pets, plants, and pipes from the freeze.
Deep Freeze Grips the Southeast
According to forecast data from WeatherBell Analytics, most areas across the Southeast are expected to wake up below freezing on Wednesday morning.
- Birmingham and Montgomery, Alabama: Lows in the mid-20s
- Jackson, Mississippi: Near 26°F
- Atlanta, Georgia: Around 28°F
- Greenville, South Carolina: Close to 29°F
- Northern Florida Panhandle: Upper 30s to near 40°F
The latest temperature maps show that much of the Deep South will experience conditions that feel more like the Midwest in January, as cold air surges southward behind the departing Arctic front.
Meteorologists warn that the sudden freeze could bring hazardous conditions for unprepared homes and roadways, especially in areas that rarely see such low temperatures this early in December.
Officials Urge Residents to Remember the ‘3 P’s’: Pets, Plants, and Pipes
Emergency management offices across the region are reminding residents of the 3 P’s rule to minimize damage and injury during the freeze:
- Pets: Bring animals indoors. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
- Plants: Cover outdoor plants with frost cloths or bring potted ones inside to avoid freezing damage.
- Pipes: Allow faucets to drip overnight to prevent freezing and bursting, especially in older homes.
“Even a few hours of subfreezing air can cause major problems,” officials said. “We want everyone to prepare tonight before temperatures start dropping.”
Neighborly Check-Ins Encouraged Amid Dangerous Cold
Forecasters and local emergency officials also stress the importance of checking on neighbors, particularly the elderly or those without adequate heating.
The wind chill values could make the air feel even colder, and those without proper shelter or insulation may face hypothermia risks.
Residents are urged to ensure everyone in their community is safe — even those they might not regularly speak to. As one weather bulletin put it: “Check on your neighbors, even the one who still hasn’t returned your rake.”
Warming Expected Later in the Day
While temperatures will start in the 20s and 30s, the region should see some afternoon thawing, with highs reaching the mid-40s to low 50s by Wednesday afternoon. However, another round of cold air may return by Thursday night, keeping the region in a below-normal temperature pattern through the end of the week.
Forecasters advise bundling up for morning commutes and allowing extra time for vehicles to warm up, as frost and thin ice could form on windshields and bridges.
Cold Air Stretches From Texas to the Carolinas
The Arctic air mass extends across much of the southern U.S., with temperatures below freezing as far west as Texas and Oklahoma. Even Gulf Coast cities like New Orleans and Mobile could see morning lows near the freezing mark, while northern Florida stays just above it.
Meteorologists say the setup is part of a broader cold pattern that’s likely to dominate the first week of December, reinforcing winter-like conditions across much of the country.
As the Southeast prepares for its first major freeze of the season, residents are encouraged to take precautions tonight — and keep an eye on local forecasts for updates as the coldest air arrives.
For more updates on regional weather and safety advisories, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
