Thanksgiving Arctic Blast: Life-Threatening Cold and Feet of Snow Slam U.S. – Is Your Area at Risk?
This Thanksgiving weekend, a powerful Arctic blast will sweep across the U.S. heartland, bringing bone-chilling temperatures and heavy lake-effect snow to the Great Lakes region. The cold wave, the most severe since February, will plunge temperatures to dangerous lows, affecting millions during the holiday travel rush.
Cold Front Arrives with a Vengeance
The Arctic outbreak will begin its descent into the northern Plains on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the cold will advance into the Midwest and parts of the South and East through the weekend. For much of the affected regions, this event will mark an abrupt shift from a relatively warm autumn to a frigid winter reality.
Temperatures in the northern Plains and upper Midwest are set to drop below zero, with wind chills making it feel even colder. In the Dakotas, wind chills could plummet as low as -40°F (-40°C), posing extreme risks of frostbite and hypothermia. Residents are urged to minimize outdoor exposure and ensure they are prepared for potentially life-threatening cold.
Lake-Effect Snowstorm to Disrupt Travel
The Great Lakes region will bear the brunt of heavy lake-effect snow, driven by the icy air flowing over the still-warm waters of the lakes. Snow bands could result in localized accumulations exceeding several feet in the most affected areas, with high winds creating blizzard-like conditions.
The hardest-hit zones include:
- **Interstate 90 Corridor:** From Cleveland to Buffalo.
- **Interstate 81:** North of Syracuse, NY.
Travelers in these areas should prepare for hazardous road conditions, reduced visibility, and possible closures. Those planning holiday trips are strongly encouraged to monitor local forecasts and consider alternate routes or postponing travel if necessary.
#### **Preparations and Safety Measures**
With conditions deteriorating rapidly, the National Weather Service advises the following:
1. **Stay Indoors:** Limit outdoor activities and dress in layers if going outside is unavoidable.
2. **Winterize Vehicles:** Ensure your car has a winter survival kit, including blankets, food, and water.
3. **Monitor Alerts:** Keep up to date with local forecasts and heed any warnings issued by authorities.
As the Arctic blast deepens its grip, communities across the affected regions are bracing for an early taste of winter's fury. Stay safe, and keep an eye on updated forecasts to navigate the holiday weekend safely.
For real-time weather updates and alerts, visit the [NWS Weather Prediction Center](https://www.weather.gov/).
Chief forecaster and ideologist of the weather forecast service Pogodnik. Co-author of scientific articles and specialized content for various online media.
