Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and Florida Brace for Dangerous Arctic Freeze as Temperatures Drop Into the Teens

ALABAMA — A bitter Arctic air mass is sweeping across the Deep South, plunging temperatures into the teens and low 20s overnight and creating dangerous wind chills across Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and northern Florida. Meteorologists are warning that this will be one of the coldest nights of the season, with widespread threats to pipes, plants, and pets.

Arctic Air Takes Over the South Overnight

Weather models show subfreezing temperatures extending from the Mississippi Delta to the Georgia Piedmont by early Monday morning, with wind chills dropping into the single digits across inland areas.

In Alabama, early-morning temperatures are expected to fall to 19°F in Birmingham and 17°F in Huntsville, while Jackson, Mississippi, could bottom out near 20°F. The cold air will reach the Florida Panhandle and north-central regions by dawn, with areas around Tallahassee and Gainesville forecast to dip into the upper 20s.

“This isn’t dramatic cold — it’s quiet, judgmental cold,” said meteorologist Chris Jones. “It’s the kind that makes your pipes start talking back and your dog question your life choices.”

Hard Freeze and Wind Chill Alerts in Effect

The National Weather Service has issued Hard Freeze Warnings and Wind Chill Advisories across much of the region, warning that prolonged exposure to these conditions can be dangerous. Gusty northwest winds of 15–25 mph will make it feel even colder, especially in rural areas.

“This cold will bite — not bark,” Jones cautioned. “We’re talking about frostbite risk in under 30 minutes for anyone not properly dressed.”

Officials are urging residents to take these steps before nightfall:

• Bring pets indoors or provide heated shelter.
• Wrap pipes and drip faucets to prevent bursting.
• Cover sensitive plants or move them inside.
• Check on elderly neighbors and anyone without reliable heat.

High Energy Demand Expected Overnight

Power providers across the South are bracing for a surge in heating demand as residents crank up thermostats. Authorities are urging caution with space heaters — keeping them clear of furniture, curtains, and flammable materials.

Jones joked that “thermostats are about to lie straight to your face,” warning that strong winds may make homes feel colder than the actual temperature. “Somebody’s gonna wake up mad at December, their ex, and the power company — in that order,” he said.

Cold to Linger Before Milder Midweek Weather

The Arctic air will dominate the region through Monday morning, with temperatures remaining below freezing for several hours before gradually rebounding into the 30s and 40s by afternoon.

Forecasters say a brief warm-up will arrive midweek, though another cold push could follow before Christmas.

“Handle it tonight or learn lessons the hard way tomorrow morning,” Jones warned. “Your pipes begged. The map warned you. The air told you.”

Residents across Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and northern Florida are urged to prepare now, as the Deep South braces for a dangerously cold night.

For continued weather updates and safety alerts, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.