Texas, Midwest, and Eastern U.S. to Face Arctic Blast Next Weekend With Temperatures 15–30 Degrees Below Average
TEXAS — Winter is preparing to deliver its first major punch of the season. Meteorologists are tracking a powerful Arctic air mass expected to surge south and east across the United States next weekend, sending temperatures 15 to 30 degrees below average across much of the nation — including parts of Texas, the Midwest, and the Eastern Seaboard.
Arctic Air to Surge Southward From the Yukon
The incoming air mass, described by forecasters as “straight out of the Yukon Deep Freeze Depot,” will bring a rapid and dramatic temperature drop beginning late Friday into Saturday. The cold front is expected to sweep through the central and southern states before pushing toward the East Coast by Sunday.
Forecasters say the pattern will resemble a classic deep-winter Arctic outbreak, featuring booming north winds and a sudden plunge in temperatures that will catch much of the country off guard after a brief midweek warm-up.
15–30°F Below Average Across the Central and Eastern U.S.
By next weekend, the coldest air will settle over the Midwest and Ohio Valley, spreading eastward into the Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic. Cities including Chicago, St. Louis, Nashville, and Atlanta could see daytime highs 20 to 25 degrees below normal, while overnight lows in parts of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas may drop into the 20s and 30s.
Meteorologists warn that wind chills could make conditions feel even colder, particularly east of Texas, where gusts between 20–35 mph are expected.
What to Expect Next Weekend
- Major chill sets in by Saturday and Sunday
- Temperatures plunge 15–30°F below normal across large portions of the U.S.
- Strong northwest winds will create biting wind chills and localized power outage risks
- Coldest conditions expected east of Texas through the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic
“This is the kind of cold that slaps you awake the moment you open the door,” said one meteorologist, cautioning residents to prepare for an abrupt temperature shift after several mild days midweek.
Brief Warm-Up Before the Drop
Before the Arctic blast arrives, much of the country will experience a short-lived warm spell from Tuesday through Thursday, with above-average highs offering a temporary break. However, forecasters say that warmth will vanish quickly once the polar front pushes in from the north.
By Friday night, the chill will be widespread, signaling that winter’s grip is about to tighten across the continental U.S.
Stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com for ongoing updates on the incoming Arctic outbreak, detailed forecasts by region, and safety guidance for communities across Texas, the Midwest, and the East Coast.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.