A powerful Arctic outbreak is forming across North America, and weather experts are warning it could bring some of the coldest temperatures seen in years to large parts of the United States. The system, which some meteorologists have dubbed an “Arctic hurricane,” is expected to drive temperatures well below zero, disrupt travel, and put millions at risk of cold-related dangers.
Forecasters say the threat is not limited to a single region. Instead, the cold air mass is projected to sweep across the Midwest, Plains, and parts of the Northeast, with wind chills plunging to life-threatening levels in certain areas.
Unlike typical winter cold snaps, this system is being fueled by a strong polar vortex displacement. When the polar vortex weakens or shifts, Arctic air that normally stays near the North Pole is able to spill southward, bringing extreme cold to lower latitudes.
In this case, meteorologists say the setup is particularly concerning because of how fast the temperatures are expected to drop. Some regions could see daytime highs remain below zero, while overnight lows may fall to levels that can cause frostbite within minutes.
