Dangerous Dec. 30 Cold Blast to Sweep Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, Arkansas and the Carolinas With Days of Sub-50° Temperatures

United States — A powerful and unusually sharp Arctic cold blast is expected to strike the Deep South beginning December 30, delivering multiple days of sub-freezing wind chills and temperatures struggling to reach 50 degrees across a large portion of the region. The system will sweep through Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, Arkansas and the Carolinas, marking one of the most significant cold outbreaks of the late December period.

A Widespread and Prolonged Southern Cold Event

Meteorologists warn that this cold front will have a broad footprint, affecting nearly every state across the Southern tier. Forecasts indicate that many areas will not return to 50 degrees until January 2 or 3, signaling a multi-day freeze pattern uncommon for this time of year.

The cold is expected to bring deep winter wind chills, especially during early morning hours. Even daytime temperatures will remain unseasonably low, with highs limited by a strong northerly flow delivering dense Arctic air far south into the Gulf states.

This pattern is being described as a “long-duration chill,” reinforced by persistent northern winds and clear overnight skies that will allow heat to escape rapidly.

What Each Region Can Expect

Forecast analysis shows a distinctive cold gradient across the South, with all listed states preparing for unusually sharp temperature drops.

• Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana are expected to transition to refrigerator-level temperatures, with nighttime wind chills dipping into the 20s.
• Georgia and Tennessee will experience deep-freeze conditions, particularly in higher elevations where cold air can settle rapidly.
• Arkansas may see the most aggressive wind gusts, producing wind chills that feel significantly colder than the actual temperature.
• Texas will encounter widespread cold, with inland regions likely to feel the strongest Arctic influence.
• North and South Carolina will face freezing temperatures accompanied by brisk winds, prolonging the cold well into the New Year period.

Meteorologists note that recent warm spells across the South could worsen impacts as residents shift abruptly into a winter pattern.

Forecast Models Highlight a Strong Arctic Push

Multiple forecast models align on the strength of this cold outbreak. High-resolution models show temperatures rapidly falling on December 30 as the leading edge of the Arctic air mass pushes through the region. While some models suggest more moderate cold, the majority indicate persistent freezing air and strong northerly winds through the first days of January.

Because the arrival timing and intensity are consistent across various model suites, confidence remains high that the South will face a significant and prolonged cold event.

Preparation Encouraged Ahead of Dec. 30

Residents across the affected states are encouraged to take precautions as the cold settles in. The extended duration of low temperatures could strain heating systems, create colder interior conditions, and increase risks for residents without adequate home heating.

Key considerations include:

• Protecting pipes, outdoor faucets and well pumps
• Ensuring pets and livestock have warm shelter
• Checking heating systems for proper function
• Stocking essentials ahead of the holiday weekend
• Avoiding unnecessary early-morning travel when wind chills peak

Officials emphasize that even without snow or widespread precipitation, severe cold can still create hazardous conditions, especially for vulnerable populations. The cold front is expected to move quickly but remain firmly in place across the South for several days. For continuing national weather updates and developing forecasts, visit NapervilleLocal.com.