Northeast United States To Be Blasted By ‘Most Extreme Cold On Earth’ Before Christmas

Meteorologists are predicting a severe Arctic cold blast for the Northeastern United States just before Christmas. Some forecasts suggest temperatures could reach levels among the coldest on Earth for this time of year, driven by a southward dip in the polar jet stream.

Major cities such as New York, Boston, and Philadelphia may see temperatures 15 to 25 degrees below average, with overnight lows in the teens or single digits Fahrenheit. Interior regions of New England and upstate New York could experience sub-zero readings. Experts say this pattern is unusually strong for early winter.

The frigid air originates from northern Canada, pushed south by a polar vortex disruption. This weakens the boundary between polar and mid-latitude air, allowing Arctic air to spill into central and eastern states. Forecasters warn that this could coincide with heavy snowfall depending on storm tracks.

Ahead of the cold, a winter storm is expected to move from the Midwest into the Northeast, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Travel disruptions may occur as snow accumulates, just as holiday traffic begins to rise.

The extreme cold and snow threaten infrastructure and safety. Utilities are preparing for increased heating demand, while officials urge residents to expect power outages, frozen pipes, and dangerously low wind chills that can cause frostbite quickly.

This early blast follows recent snow events in the Great Lakes and interior Northeast. Long-range forecasts suggest the eastern U.S. may face repeated Arctic intrusions, making this cold snap an early indicator of a harsher-than-normal winter.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, warning of flight delays, road closures, and other disruptions. While conditions may ease after Christmas, additional outbreaks of intense cold remain possible through the season.