If you reside in a particular US city, it’s time to bring out your winter boots and bundle up as there’s a possibility of experiencing the longest deep freeze in over fifty years due to an approaching snow cyclone.
While many might have hoped for the end of winter weather and the arrival of spring, another substantial snowstorm is on its way.
This January has already seen the impact of Storm Fern, leading to emergency declarations in 17 states due to the impending severe cold weather across the US.
According to The Guardian, a storm that hit on Saturday (January 31) has resulted in the loss of at least 85 lives across the nation. This storm is now advancing towards the East Coast, bringing ice, snow, and frigid temperatures in its path.
After New York City received about 30 inches of snow, states have been advised to ‘prepare’ for the next wave of severe weather. However, no city is expected to be more severely affected than one major destination.
A ‘bomb cyclone’ is anticipated to affect Florida and the Southeast region this week, before turning its attention to New York City.
The anticipated freeze could be so intense that it might become the longest deep freeze in 65 years if weather predictions hold true.
According to experts, the last time New York experienced such severe weather was in 1881, and the longest freeze record was set in 1961 with a 16-day frost period.
This time, forecasts from AccuWeather meteorologists suggest temperatures might remain at or below 32 degrees for 15 consecutive days until February.
Meteorologist Chad Merrill informed The New York Post: “We are expecting the high temperature to be at or below 32 through next Saturday, which would rank as the second longest streak with the maximum temperature at or below 32 in years.”
He mentioned that conditions could change going into the following weekend, which might cause temperatures to rise above freezing for some days, adding: “I think we’re looking at that streak probably ending Sunday or Monday.”
On January 30, New York mayor, Zohran Mamdani, urged citizens to take the cold weather seriously due to ‘dangerously low’ temperatures and resulting icy conditions.
The mayor advised: “If you can, stay indoors, keep warm, and limit time outside. If you need to travel, use public transportation and give yourself extra time.”
“City agencies are working around the clock to clear streets, improve road conditions, and get New Yorkers indoors and out of the cold as we continue recovering from last weekend’s heavy snowfall. As we face what could be the harshest stretch of cold weather in New York City history, we all must do our part and stay prepared.”
Experts attribute the cold spell to pressure systems over Greenland and the western US, creating a ‘direct connection’ of cold air from near the Arctic Circle to the eastern US.