Freezing Temperatures Across the Midwest and Southeast

Millions of Americans are getting a chilly reminder that winter is right around the corner as a surge of cold air spreads across the central and eastern United States this weekend. 

After weeks of unusually mild fall weather, temperatures are taking a sharp turn; some cities saw their first freeze of the season Saturday morning. 

The dramatic cooldown is being driven by a southward dip in the jet stream, allowing colder Canadian air to spill into the Plains, Midwest and Southeast. Temperatures in some areas could fall 10 to 15 degrees below seasonal averages. 

The Midwest will experience some of the coldest conditions, with overnight temperatures dropping into the 20s across portions of Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri and surrounding states. Cities including Omaha and Kansas City could see their first significant freeze following an extended stretch of warmer-than-normal weather. 

Farther east, the cold air will reach communities around the Great Lakes, including Chicago and Detroit, where residents can expect a noticeable change from the mild temperatures experienced earlier this month. 

The Southeast won’t escape the chill. Temperatures across Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia and the Carolinas will tumble into the 30s and 40s, with some locations facing the possibility of frost or freezing conditions. 

Even the Sunshine State will get a taste of colder weather. Morning temperatures across Central Florida, including Orlando and Tampa, could dip into the 40s, while parts of North Florida may experience readings in the upper 30s. South Florida will remain warmer, although overnight lows could fall into the 50s. 

The arrival of freezing temperatures is particularly notable after an unusually warm autumn delayed the seasonal cooldown across portions of the country. Residents in areas expecting frost or freezing conditions should consider protecting sensitive plants and bringing pets indoors during the coldest overnight hours. 

Fortunately, this blast of cold air is expected to be relatively brief. Temperatures should begin climbing again early next week as the weather pattern shifts, bringing a return to milder conditions across much of the central and eastern United States. Tune into WeatherNation TV for more details.