Winter storm warning as an arctic air mass forecast that will hit most of the US with dangerously cold conditions during the holiday season

An arctic air mass is expected to hit the United States this week forecasters warn of dangerously cold weather in certain areas.

The arctic front will emerge from Canada and move towards the Gulf later this week and into the Christmas weekend.

5

5

The cold front is expected by Christmas.

“An icy Arctic air mass will tumble south throughout the week, bringing dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills across the central and eastern United States,” the National Weather Prediction Center (NWS) said.

“When you’re doing your Christmas shopping, take steps to protect yourself from the cold.”

NWS said temperatures in areas like Mississippi will drop 20 to 30 degrees in a matter of hours, landing at their lowest point of 30 degrees this Friday.

Cities like Chicago should brace for very cold weather, with forecasters expecting “near-blizzard” conditions.

“Major storm system affecting area Thursday through Saturday, with peak impact from accumulation and blowing snow and very strong winds late Thursday afternoon through Friday night,” Weather Service forecast.

Snow is expected on Thursday and officials are asking people to be careful as it is one of the busiest days for travel in the country.

The weather is expected to reach -30 degrees by Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

The NWS also shared some cold-weather safety information.

“Extremely cold air hits at least part of the country every winter and affects millions of people in the United States,” the post said.

“The arctic air combined with brisk winds can result in dangerously cold wind chill levels.

“People exposed to extreme cold are vulnerable to frostbite within minutes.”

The cold is accompanied by strong winds.

“This doesn’t affect pipes, but for people and pets, the fast-moving air accelerates heat loss across our bodies and can quickly lead to hypothermia,” the NWS wrote.

The incoming Arctic mass is expected to be stronger than that in 2021.

This could pose problems for several states, including Texas, which has had problems with its power grid in the face of such extreme weather conditions.

5

5

5