An arctic blast is currently sweeping across the Northeastern United States, resulting in icy conditions, substantial snowfall, and disrupted travel plans amid one of the busiest holiday seasons. The coldest air seen this season is expected to plunge temperatures along the East Coast and Northeast this weekend, just as millions make their way to airports and highways for Christmas.
Arriving from the northern plains, this bitter cold has already made its presence felt. Fenway Park, near Boston, reported snowfall accumulations of at least 6 inches, contributing to hazardous conditions. Throughout parts of western New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania, snowfall ranged from 1 to 4 inches. Central Park has recorded its first measurable snowfall of the season, with accumulations of 1.8 inches early on Saturday.
Temperatures quickly followed suit with dramatic drops; reports indicate declines of 15 to 25 degrees across parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin, and 5 to 15 degrees across the Midwest. By Sunday, the arctic air is expected to spread eastward, causing morning wind chills to plummet to below zero across the Northeast, particularly affecting Boston and New York City, where expected high temperatures could only reach the 20s – something not seen since mid-January 2024.
Travel disruptions were rampant as of Saturday morning. According to reports, 130 flights were canceled, and around 830 flights were delayed nationwide. JetBlue Airlines has faced significant operational challenges, canceling 46 flights, which constitutes 4% of its schedule. Airports like Logan International in Boston were especially hard hit, seeing over 154 cancellations, with overall stranding affecting travelers up and down the East Coast.
Chicago's O'Hare International Airport also experienced heavy disruptions, issuing ground stops on Friday as icy conditions wreaked havoc on numerous flights. By 11:30 PM ET Friday, nearly 9,400 flights had been delayed across the country, with Southwest Airlines leading cancellations overall at 113 flights, which is 2% of its scheduled operations.
While the immediate forecast brings severe chills and biting winds, there’s also uncertainty looming as another storm system approaches for Christmas Eve. The National Weather Service indicated rain and snow may occur along the I-95 corridor. This system may not bring the major snowstorm many are hoping for, but it could deliver several inches of snow across parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, and upstate New York. The question remains: Will Christmas Eve bring the snowy scene many associate with the holiday?
The NWS humorously noted, "Christmas Day will feature green and brown grass for much of the U.S. - not exactly what Bing Crosby crooned about!" While the Eastern seaboard may see minimal snow on Christmas Day itself, northern areas like Maine could be treated to more significant snow – with Bangor expected to receive between 3 to 6 inches.
Looking forward, temperatures are anticipated to rebound slightly after Christmas, providing some relief from this frigid weather pattern. Still, for now, safety concerns remain as many travel plans are complicated by the harsh conditions. Travelers are urged to stay updated on flight schedules and road conditions as they navigate holiday travel.
This arctic plunge is unlike anything seen earlier this season, with “feels like” temperatures predicted to drop well below zero even for major coastal cities. Wind chill advisories are currently in effect, affecting areas from upstate New York through to Maine, where wind chills could reach as low as 20 degrees below zero. Meanwhile, balmy weather continues across the West and Southeast where temperatures will be far above average, creating stark contrasts across the nation.
With the holiday season upon us, the Northeastern U.S. prepares for one of its coldest weekends yet, as many families try to gather and celebrate amid the challenges presented by this extreme weather.
