Extreme Cold Weather Grips the Northeastern United States

Since mid-January 2026, the Eastern United States has experienced an extreme cold snap, characterized by dangerously low temperatures and severe wind chills. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that wind chills have plummeted to as low as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas, with parts of New York City recording temperatures colder than Antarctica. The cold wave has resulted in the deaths of at least 17 individuals in New York City, with 13 confirmed fatalities attributed to hypothermia.

New York Post

The NWS issued cold weather advisories across multiple states, including Pennsylvania and Ohio, warning residents of wind chills that could cause frostbite in as little as 15 minutes. In Northeast Ohio, advisories were in effect for counties such as Lorain, Cuyahoga, and Summit, where wind chills were expected to fall between 10 and 20 degrees below zero. Residents were urged to dress in layers, limit outdoor exposure, and ensure the safety of pets and vulnerable populations.

Cleveland.com | Cleveland Plain Dealer

The cold snap has led to record low temperatures across the region. New York City recorded a low of 3 degrees Fahrenheit, breaking previous records. DuBois, Pennsylvania, experienced a record low of minus 3 degrees, while Watertown, New York, recorded the lowest temperature in the country at minus 34 degrees. Meteorologists noted that this cold stretch is among the most extreme in the last two decades, with many areas experiencing prolonged periods below freezing.

New York Times

Meteorologists have indicated that the worst of the cold weather may soon be over, with temperatures expected to rise by about 10 degrees on Monday and continue to increase throughout the week. David Roth from the Weather Prediction Center stated, “Compared to how we’ve been, it’s going to be delightful on Tuesday and Wednesday.” However, he cautioned that another cool-down could occur early next week.

New York Times

Despite the severe weather conditions and rising death toll, New York City Mayor Mamdani has faced criticism for not mandating that homeless individuals be moved into shelters. This decision has raised concerns among advocates for the homeless, especially as warming shelters have been opened in other major cities such as Philadelphia and Boston, where Mayor Michelle Wu declared a cold weather emergency.

New York Post

As temperatures are projected to rise, the NWS anticipates a gradual thaw across the region, with highs expected to reach the 30s in cities like Richmond and Washington, D.C., and even warmer temperatures in New York City by midweek. However, meteorologists warn that another round of cold air could return, albeit less severe than the current conditions.

New York Times

• “The coldest days will be behind us by Monday,” — Chad Merrill, Meteorologist at AccuWeather

New York Post

• “In many parts of the Northeast away from the coast, this prolonged stretch of cold is the most extreme in at least the last decade and, in some areas, the last two decades,” — Dan DePodwin, Senior Director of Forecasting Operations at AccuWeather

New York Post

• “ "The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 30 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 15 minutes.” — National Weather Service Advisory

The Express-Times (Lehigh Valley)