Sun Jan 19 12:20:00 UTC 2025: **Northeast Braces for Major Winter Storm, Record Cold to Follow**
NEW YORK – A major winter storm is set to slam the Northeast this weekend, bringing significant snowfall to the I-95 corridor and dangerously cold temperatures across a vast swathe of the eastern U.S. The FOX Forecast Center predicts 1-3 inches of snow from Washington, D.C. to Boston, with heavier accumulations – 5-8 inches – expected north and west of I-95, starting Sunday evening.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has declared a state of emergency, urging residents to prepare for below-zero wind chills. The frigid temperatures are expected to persist through next week, prompting the opening of warming centers in many communities from the Canadian border to Florida.
The impending storm comes on the heels of a snowfall deficit in the region. Philadelphia is about 5 inches below normal snowfall, while New York City lags by roughly half a foot. The storm could potentially bring the season’s largest accumulation to date for the affected areas.
The unusual cold has also impacted the upcoming Presidential Inauguration in Washington, D.C. While 1-3 inches of snow is anticipated in the capital, the post-storm arctic blast has prompted the relocation of most inaugural events indoors due to concerns over dangerously low temperatures. This departure from tradition follows months of preparation for large-scale outdoor events.
The approaching polar vortex will plunge temperatures below average for over 300 million people across the nation. Highs in the mid-20s on Monday will plummet to near zero by Wednesday evening as the arctic air mass intensifies. Authorities are urging residents to limit outdoor exposure and take precautions to protect themselves and their pets from the life-threatening cold.
First Piper 