Polar Vortex to Bring Severe Cold and Snowstorms to Eastern U.S. in Early 2025

Forecasters warn of dangerously low temperatures, potential power grid strain, and significant snowfall impacting millions across the Midwest, South, and East Coast.

The polar vortex is expected to unleash Arctic air across the U.S., with temperatures dropping 20 to 40 degrees below average in some areas during the first two weeks of January.
Heavy snowfall and winter storms are predicted for regions including the Midwest, Appalachians, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic, potentially disrupting travel and daily life.
The Southeast, including areas as far south as the Gulf Coast and Florida, could experience freezing temperatures and even snow or ice, which are rare for the region.
Meteorologists caution that the extreme cold may strain power grids, leading to potential rolling blackouts and increased heating costs for millions of Americans.
January 2025 is projected to be one of the coldest months in over a decade, with relief from the frigid conditions expected by February.