The National Weather Service has activated urgent alerts across the United States. A massive weather system brings dangerous cold, heavy snow, strong winds, and dense fog to vast regions. The situation stretches from Florida all the way to the Great Lakes and even reaches Alaska.
Florida Braces for Rare Freezing Temperatures
Forecasters at NWS Tampa Bay/Ruskin have issued a Freeze Warning and Cold Weather Advisory. This alert covers parts of central and coastal Florida, including Citrus, Hernando, Levy, and Sumter counties. The warning period runs from midnight Sunday until 9 am Monday.
Temperatures could plummet to 25°F. Wind chills may make it feel like 23°F. The NWS warns that frost and freezing conditions pose serious risks. Sensitive plants could die. Crops might suffer damage. Outdoor plumbing systems could also be affected.
A Freeze Watch remains active for late Monday night into Tuesday morning. Temperatures are expected to drop below freezing once again. Officials advise residents to take immediate precautions. People should protect their plants. They need to cover exposed pipes. Anyone going outdoors must dress in warm layers.
Arctic Air Mass Spreads Across Midwest and Southeast
The NWS Weather Prediction Center reports a powerful Arctic air mass moving south. This system pushes temperatures 20 to 30 degrees below normal across much of the Midwest. Overnight lows in the low to mid-30s have triggered freeze warnings. These alerts extend from southern Georgia into central and northern Florida.
Wind chills in parts of Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin could drop to 30 below zero. The NWS La Crosse office warns that exposed skin faces extreme danger. Frostbite could occur in as little as ten minutes under these conditions.
Sudden Snow Squalls Threaten Indiana and Michigan
The NWS Northern Indiana office issued a Snow Squall Warning. This alert covers parts of northeastern Indiana and southwestern Michigan. Sections of Interstate 80 fall within the warning zone.
Forecasters warn of sudden bursts of heavy snow. Wind gusts could reach 35 mph. Near-whiteout conditions may develop rapidly. Travel could become dangerous within minutes. Drivers must slow down immediately. They need to stay alert for quickly changing road conditions.
Heavy Lake-Effect Snow Targets New York
In upstate New York, the NWS Albany office predicts significant lake-effect snow. Northern Herkimer County could see 6 to 12 inches of accumulation through early Wednesday.
Visibility may drop below a quarter mile. Travel could become very difficult. Areas north of the Route 28 corridor face particularly hazardous conditions.
Dense Fog Blankets California's San Joaquin Valley
The NWS Hanford office warns of dense fog across the San Joaquin Valley. Visibility could reduce to less than 200 feet. Some areas might experience near-zero visibility.
The advisory remains effective until Monday afternoon. Fog is expected to return again overnight. Driving conditions will be hazardous.
Strong Winds and Bitter Cold Hit Ohio and Pennsylvania
The NWS Cleveland office reports wind gusts up to 45 mph. These strong winds could knock down tree limbs. Isolated power outages are possible in parts of northeast Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania.
A Cold Weather Advisory follows Monday night into Tuesday. Wind chills may drop to 15 to 20 below zero. This increases the risk of hypothermia for anyone outdoors.
Extreme Cold Warning Issued for West Virginia
In Western Greenbrier County, West Virginia, the NWS Blacksburg office issued an Extreme Cold Warning. Wind chills could fall to 15 below zero. Higher elevations may experience even colder conditions.
Residents should limit their time outdoors. They must wear layered winter clothing. Hats, gloves, and face coverings are essential for protection.
Freezing Spray Warning for Alaska Waters
The NWS Fairbanks office issued a Heavy Freezing Spray Warning. This alert covers coastal waters in northwest Alaska. Ice buildup on vessels could create dangerous conditions for marine travel.
What People Should Do Now
The National Weather Service provides clear guidance for residents in affected regions. People must follow these safety measures:
- Dress in warm layers, including hats and gloves
- Limit outdoor exposure during extreme cold
- Protect plants, pets, and water pipes from freezing
- Drive cautiously in snow, fog, and high winds
- Stay updated with local NWS alerts and warnings
More warnings may be issued over the next two days. The weather system continues moving east and south. Residents should remain vigilant and prepared.
