Triple Polar Vortex: First Arctic Blast Sends Temperatures Plunging Across Central and Eastern U.S.

Arctic Air Surges South as Polar Vortex Shifts

A shifting polar vortex has delivered the first of three anticipated blasts of Arctic air into the central and eastern United States, driving sharply colder temperatures and threatening to topple long-standing record lows from Iowa to Maine. Forecasters warn two additional cold surges are likely over the next two weeks.

“The week will end with some of the coldest air of the season so far, as a front advances from the Midwest into the Northeast and mid-Atlantic,” said Renee Duff, senior meteorologist at AccuWeather.

AccuWeather analysts say a displacement of the polar vortex is allowing Arctic air to funnel southward into the central and eastern U.S. A second cold outbreak is possible next week, with a third likely around mid-month, according to long-range forecaster Paul Pastelok.

What Happened So Far

Portions of the Midwest experienced brutally cold readings. In Iowa, more than a dozen communities set new record lows; Waterloo plunged to -15°F, breaking the previous record of -7°F set in 1991. The chill extended into the northern mid-Atlantic and New England on Friday morning.

In New York City, temperatures hovered near 20°F, while much of New England reported readings in the low to mid-teens. Albany recorded a single-digit high of 1°F. Meteorologists warn subzero lows are possible across the northern Plains and Upper Midwest — from the Dakotas and Minnesota into Iowa and Nebraska — as the Arctic air mass deepens.

Short-Term Forecast (General Highs)

• Midwest: Teens to low 20s °F
• New England: 20s to 30s °F
• Central/Southern Plains East To The Mid‑Atlantic: 30s to 40s °F
• Texas And Southeast: 40s to 50s °F

Why This Is Happening

The polar vortex is a large region of low pressure and cold air surrounding Earth's poles. The "vortex" describes the counterclockwise circulation that usually keeps the coldest air near the poles. In winter, the vortex can expand or become displaced, allowing Arctic air to push southward along the jet stream and bring unusually cold conditions to lower latitudes, the National Weather Service explains.

Safety And Preparation Tips

AccuWeather urges residents to winterize homes and water lines, inspect furnaces and replenish heating oil or propane supplies now. The American Red Cross recommends the following precautions during power outages and extreme cold:

• Use generators, grills and camp stoves only outdoors and well away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Never use a cooking oven or stove to heat your home; this risks carbon monoxide poisoning and fire.
• Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire hazards.
• Close off unneeded rooms to conserve heat; exercise caution with fireplaces and space heaters and keep combustible materials at least 3 feet away.
• When outdoors, cover exposed skin: wear multiple layers, a hat, snug mittens, a face covering such as a scarf or ski mask, and water-resistant boots.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow or walking through deep drifts—extreme exertion can trigger heart attacks and other serious medical events.

Residents in affected areas should monitor local forecasts and advisories from the National Weather Service and prepare now for additional rounds of frigid weather.