Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee Could Face Extended Winter as Forecast Models Warn of Harsh January and February Cold

ATLANTA, GA — Weather experts say the Southern U.S. — including Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee — should prepare for another round of Arctic cold as new forecast models predict a harsh return of winter temperatures through January and February. Despite recent mild weather, long-range data shows winter is far from over, with meteorologists warning residents not to “count spring just yet.”

According to several leading weather models, including the GFS, CMC, and CFS, a strong cold pattern is developing that could send temperatures plummeting well below normal across much of the Southeast.

Cold Air Expected to Surge Back Mid-January

Meteorologists analyzing model trends say mid- to late January will bring a renewed outbreak of Arctic air, expanding from the Midwest into the Deep South. Maps show colder-than-average temperature anomalies extending across Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee, with snow and ice potential increasing in northern sections of these states.

The Canadian and European models both indicate that the current warm spell is temporary — suggesting that the polar jet stream will dip southward, ushering in widespread cold air that could linger for weeks.

“Don’t quit winter early,” one forecaster said. “January and February are when the South’s winter shows its true personality. We’re not done — not even close.”

Meteorologists Caution Against Early Spring Expectations

Forecasters are advising residents not to be fooled by recent mild afternoons, saying the coldest stretch of the season may still lie ahead.

“These long-range models are basically saying, ‘Winter just stepped out for a bit and will absolutely be back,’” said one meteorologist, noting that Arctic air masses are already redeveloping in Canada and expected to push southward by early January.

Southern States Could See Freezing Nights and Possible Snow

If current patterns hold, residents across northern Georgia, central Alabama, and eastern Tennessee may experience subfreezing temperatures, while parts of the Appalachian region could see accumulating snow.

The CFS model shows persistent cold extending through February, suggesting this could be one of the longer-lasting southern winters in recent years.

“Elsa hasn’t left,” joked another analyst, referencing the animated character from Frozen. “She’s just switching wardrobes — and she’s bringing her freezer back with her.”

Multiple Models Show Strong Agreement

Weather models remain in strong alignment, despite differences in timing:

• GFS predicts repeated Arctic fronts by the second week of January.
• CMC highlights deeper cold waves across the Southeast.
• CFS signals below-average temperatures lasting several weeks.

Forecasters say residents should prepare homes and vehicles now, as cold snaps could bring pipe-freezing temperatures, power strain, and icy travel conditions — especially in rural counties.

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