Weather

Arctic Air Surge to Drive Temperatures 20–35 Degrees Below Normal Across Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio From December 13–15

BySaluda Standard Sentinel Team December 10, 2025December 10, 2025

COLORADO — A major Arctic air outbreak remains firmly on track to impact a large portion of the Central and Midwest United States from December 13–15, with temperature anomalies showing readings plunging 20 to 35 degrees below normal across Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. Meteorologists warn that this event could bring some of the coldest December conditions so far this season, with widespread impacts expected.

EURO Model Shows Massive Region of Extreme Cold Anomalies

Latest EURO weather model data highlights a broad area shaded in deep purple—a sign of severe Arctic air intrusion spanning multiple states. The analysis indicates:

• Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas: -5 to -20 degree anomalies
• Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio: -20 to -35 degree anomalies

These anomalies represent temperatures drastically below what is typical for mid-December, signaling a true Arctic surge pushing deep into the central United States.

The map shows the coldest core centered over Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, where the strongest negative departures from normal are expected.

Impact: Dangerous Wind Chills, Hard Freezes, and Travel Concerns

Meteorologists warn that a temperature drop of this magnitude can bring several hazards:

• Hard freezes across agricultural regions
• Dangerous wind chills capable of causing rapid discomfort
• Increased risk of car battery failures and home heating strain
• Potential for icy roads if moisture is present

Communities across the central and eastern Plains should prepare for multi-day subfreezing temperatures, with the cold settling in firmly during the December 13–15 window.

Cold Surge Sets the Stage for Additional Winter Weather

This Arctic outbreak may serve as a setup for future winter storms, as deep cold air arriving this early often enhances storm development potential. While this particular surge is primarily a temperature anomaly event, it creates ideal conditions for snow and ice if upcoming systems track across the region.

Meteorologists will continue monitoring evolving patterns as the cold expands eastward and southward, potentially affecting additional states.

Residents Urged to Prepare Ahead of the Arctic Arrival

As temperatures plunge, officials recommend:

• Checking heating systems for functionality
• Protecting pipes, outdoor faucets, and vulnerable plumbing
• Bringing pets indoors during the coldest periods
• Preparing vehicles for possible battery or tire-pressure issues
• Monitoring forecasts for additional weather impacts

Since anomalies of 20–35 degrees below normal are significant, residents should expect abrupt and sharp changes in how cold the air feels—particularly overnight and early morning.

Communities across Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio are encouraged to stay alert as updated forecasts refine temperature ranges.

Stay connected with the Saluda Standard-Sentinel Team for more updates at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.

Saluda Standard Sentinel Team

The Saluda Standard-Sentinel Team represents the collective voice of our newsroom — covering urgent updates, official notices, and stories compiled by multiple reporters. Rooted in the South and committed to trusted local journalism, our team brings timely, community-first reporting to readers across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia.