Series of Arctic Fronts Set to Sweep Across the U.S. Through Late January as Polar Vortex Disruption Drives Repeated Cold Waves
UNITED STATES — A parade of Arctic cold fronts is set to sweep across the country over the next two weeks, continuing a stretch of winter weather driven by the polar vortex disruption first discussed several weeks ago. New temperature maps show the sequence of cold surges expected now, on Wednesday, Sunday, Monday, January 26, and January 29, each bringing another blast of frigid air.
Polar Vortex Disruption Continues to Send Repeated Cold Waves Southward
Forecasters note that nearly three weeks ago, early signals appeared showing the polar vortex weakening and breaking apart — a pattern known to unleash repeated Arctic outbreaks across the United States.
The latest temperature graphics confirm that the cold barrage is ongoing, with each front reinforcing or expanding cold air across the central and eastern U.S.
Current Conditions: Cold Air Already in Place
The image labeled “NOW” shows widespread cold stretching from the Northern Plains through the Midwest and into the Great Lakes region. Temperatures across these areas remain entrenched in the teens, 20s, and low 30s, marking the start of the larger cold pattern.
Next Wave Arrives Wednesday
The Wednesday temperature map shows the next front pushing colder air farther south and east, with blue and purple shading spreading deeper into the central and eastern United States. This midweek front reinforces the cold dome already in place and sets the stage for a much more intense surge to follow.
Major Surge Expected Sunday
The Sunday map displays a broad and intense area of Arctic air dropping out of Canada and covering nearly the entire central U.S. The heart of the cold pool settles over the Upper Midwest, while freezing and subfreezing temperatures spill toward the Gulf states. This marks one of the stronger cold waves in the sequence.
January 26: Cold Air Expands Again
The Monday, January 26 temperature outlook highlights yet another Arctic push, with purple shading dominating the northern and central regions. The cold air spreads widely across the Midwest and Great Lakes, with freezing temperatures once again reaching deep into the central states.
January 29: Final Surge Caps the Series
The final map, dated January 29, shows one more powerful Arctic front sweeping through, reinforcing cold conditions across much of the nation. The coldest air remains centered across the northern tier, but impacts extend nearly coast to coast. This final surge completes what forecasters describe as an extended barrage of Arctic fronts, all tied to the earlier polar vortex disruption.
Cold Pattern Expected to Persist Into the Final Days of January
With multiple fronts lined up and atmospheric support continuing, winter weather is expected to remain dominant across much of the U.S. through the end of the month. Additional adjustments may be made as timing and intensity become clearer on short-range models.
Residents across affected regions should prepare for persistent cold, repeated temperature drops and ongoing winter conditions. More updates will be shared as new data arrives. Readers can follow developments at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
