A blast of Arctic air is set to bring bone-chilling temperatures and heavy snow to much of the central and eastern U.S. over the weekend, coinciding with one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The core of the cold air will be concentrated in the northern Plains and upper Midwest, causing dangerously cold wind chills. Temperatures are expected to drop significantly below historical averages for this time of year.
Winter storm warnings and advisories are in place across the Great Lakes region, where heavy snow and freezing temperatures will create hazardous driving conditions. In areas along the Interstate 95 corridor, this will be the coldest start to meteorological winter in years, affecting millions of people.
Freeze warnings and watches are also in effect in areas from Texas to northern Florida, as temperatures are expected to drop to near freezing. Measures are being advised to protect vulnerable populations and prevent water pipes from freezing.
Snow is likely to fall across various parts of the country, with heavier snowfall expected in the Central Appalachians, the Great Lakes region, and downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario. A wave of low pressure is forecasted to bring light to moderate snow from the central Plains to the central Appalachians by Sunday.
In Florida and along the Gulf Coast, a slow-moving front will bring showers and thunderstorms over the weekend, along with a drop in temperatures due to the Arctic air mass moving in. Travelers are urged to exercise caution and be prepared for challenging winter conditions.
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