A blast of arctic cold will bring freezing temperatures in much of the US

• Arctic Cold Wave Hits
• First Subzero Temperatures Expected
• Extreme Wind Chill in Cities

Just in time for the official start of holiday shopping, an intense Arctic cold wave is sweeping across much of the United States.

AccuWeather meteorologists forecast that the frigid air will move from the northern plains into the Midwest and East late this week and over the weekend.

The plummeting temperatures serve as a stark reminder for homeowners to prepare pipes and ensure proper insulation ahead of winter.

The cold will not only be severe but will also be accompanied by strong winds, intensifying the wind chill in regions of the Midwest and Northeast.

Arctic Cold Wave to Bring Freezing Temperatures

In parts of the Dakotas and Minnesota, the first subzero temperatures of the season are expected, coinciding with Thanksgiving.

Cities like Dallas and Atlanta will also feel the impact, with temperatures nearing freezing on Saturday morning.

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: Chaos in the US for Thanksgiving? They say the surprising number of people who will travel

As Arctic air advances, the AccuWeather RealFeel® temperatures are predicted to drop sharply.

In Chicago, thermometers may plunge to single digits this Friday as the cold settles over the interior Northeast and Midwest.

The cold wave will be accompanied by a storm system bringing snow and rain, further complicating weather conditions in these regions.

While there will be brief pauses between cold fronts, December is shaping up to be significantly colder this year compared to last.

Last year, temperatures in the Northeast were 4 to 8 degrees above historical averages, but this year they are expected to be much closer to the norm.

AccuWeather meteorologist Paul Pastelok confirmed that December temperatures will be noticeably colder this year compared to 2023.

Extreme Cold Alert

Those planning to attend football games in the Midwest and East should bundle up for these extreme conditions.

In New York, those out holiday shopping or enjoying Broadway shows will experience RealFeel temperatures that could dip into the 20s and even 10s.

The contrast with last December will be evident, making it clear that this winter season begins with overwhelming cold.

The arrival of this arctic air system is an early warning of the severity of the coming winter.

To listen to the podcast of this and other news, click on the photo