Winter weather alerts have been issued across multiple states this weekend as a strong Arctic cold front sweeps through large parts of the United States. The National Weather Service (NWS) reports that much of the Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast are experiencing below-freezing temperatures, with snow, ice, and high winds expected to continue into early next week.
As of Sunday, over 25 million Americans are under some form of winter weather advisory or warning, making this one of the most widespread cold events of the early 2025–2026 winter season.
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Nationwide Impact and Current Conditions
The latest NWS updates show that frigid air from Canada is moving southward, causing temperature drops of 20 to 30 degrees below seasonal averages in parts of the country.
- Midwest: Cities including Minneapolis, Chicago, and Des Moines have recorded wind chills near or below zero. Snowfall totals range from 3 to 8 inches across Minnesota and Wisconsin, with heavier bands near the Great Lakes.
- Great Lakes Region: Lake-effect snow warnings are in place, particularly downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario. Buffalo, New York, could see over a foot of snow by Monday morning.
- Northeast: Pennsylvania, New York, and New England are facing a mix of snow and freezing rain, creating hazardous driving conditions.
- Plains and Mountain States: Wyoming, Nebraska, and Colorado have been under winter storm warnings since Saturday evening, with gusts topping 50 mph in open areas.
The cold air is expected to push eastward through Monday, reaching as far south as the Carolinas, where early-season frost advisories are already in place.
Types of Active Alerts in Effect
The National Weather Service issues several types of winter weather alerts depending on the severity of the conditions. As of November 23, 2025, these are the main alerts in effect:
- Winter Storm Warning: Active in northern Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan, where heavy snow and gusty winds are creating whiteout conditions.
- Winter Weather Advisory: In effect across parts of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York for moderate snow, sleet, and freezing drizzle.
- Wind Chill Warning: Covering portions of North Dakota and Minnesota, with wind chills expected to drop below -25°F.
- Ice Storm Warning: For parts of upstate New York and northern Vermont, where freezing rain may accumulate up to a quarter inch on power lines and trees.
- Blizzard Warning: Limited areas near the Upper Peninsula of Michigan have seen near-zero visibility due to blowing snow and sustained high winds.
These alerts serve as critical warnings to residents, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel and take steps to prepare for potential power outages and dangerous road conditions.
Travel Disruptions and Safety Precautions
Winter weather has already led to significant travel disruptions across the Midwest and Northeast. As of Sunday morning, more than 600 flights were delayed or canceled nationwide, primarily in Chicago O’Hare, Detroit Metro, and Boston Logan airports.
Highway departments in multiple states are reporting slick roadways and numerous spinouts. Snowplows and salt trucks have been working around the clock, but authorities are urging drivers to stay off the roads if possible until conditions improve.
Safety tips from emergency officials include:
- Avoid travel during active winter storm warnings.
- Keep extra blankets, food, and water in vehicles.
- Charge mobile devices and prepare backup batteries in case of power loss.
- Ensure heating systems are functioning safely and avoid using stoves or grills indoors for heat.
Power outages have already been reported in Michigan, northern Ohio, and parts of New England, where ice accumulation has weighed down tree limbs and power lines. Utility crews are working to restore service as temperatures continue to fall.
Temperature Outlook for the Coming Week
The NWS forecasts show that colder-than-average temperatures will persist through Thanksgiving week.
- Midwest: Highs will stay in the teens and 20s through Wednesday, with nighttime lows dropping below zero in some northern states.
- Northeast: Temperatures will remain in the 20s and low 30s, with snow showers tapering off midweek.
- Southeast: Cooler air will spread south, bringing frost and light freeze warnings to portions of Tennessee, Georgia, and the Carolinas.
- West: The Pacific Northwest and Northern Rockies may see another round of snow later in the week as a second system develops offshore.
Despite the bitter cold, meteorologists note that a brief warm-up is likely next weekend, particularly for southern regions. However, another strong Arctic blast could return in early December, suggesting a colder-than-normal start to winter for much of the country.
Impact on Holiday Travel and Supply Chains
With Thanksgiving just days away, millions of Americans are finalizing travel plans. The widespread winter weather alerts are expected to affect road, rail, and air travel early in the holiday week.
Transportation officials are advising travelers to check for updates before departure and to build flexibility into travel schedules. Airlines are offering weather-related rebooking options for affected routes, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast.
On the supply chain side, the early onset of winter weather has caused delays in regional deliveries, especially for grocery and retail shipments moving across the northern U.S. However, logistics companies have activated contingency plans to minimize disruptions ahead of the holiday rush.
Regional Breakdown: States Under Most Risk
| Region | Primary Concerns | Forecast Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Midwest | Heavy snow, subzero wind chills, travel disruptions | Through Tuesday |
| Great Lakes | Lake-effect snow, icy roads, whiteout visibility | Through Monday night |
| Northeast | Snow and freezing rain, possible power outages | Through Tuesday |
| Plains | High winds, drifting snow, road closures | Through Monday |
| Southeast | Cold air, frost advisories, isolated flurries in higher elevations | Through Wednesday |
Emergency management teams across these areas are monitoring conditions closely, with warming centers open in major cities including Chicago, Detroit, Buffalo, and Minneapolis.
What to Expect After the Storm
Once this system moves out midweek, the U.S. is expected to experience a quieter period with improving skies across most regions. However, lingering cold air and lake-effect snow will continue in localized areas near the Great Lakes.
Forecasters are watching another developing system in the Pacific Northwest that could bring fresh snow to the northern Rockies by Friday. If it strengthens as expected, it could send another round of winter alerts into the central U.S. next weekend.
This early-season pattern suggests an active winter ahead, with frequent temperature swings and multiple storm systems likely through December and January.
Staying Informed During Winter Weather
Meteorologists stress the importance of staying informed during severe weather events. Modern tools such as mobile weather apps, NOAA Weather Radio, and local alerts allow residents to receive real-time updates about storm developments and safety instructions.
Officials also urge communities to check on elderly neighbors and those without access to adequate heating. Pet owners should ensure animals are kept indoors or have proper shelter from the cold.
Being proactive can make a significant difference when temperatures drop sharply, especially during the first major winter storm of the season.
Winter weather alerts remain in effect for much of the northern U.S. as temperatures plunge and snow continues to fall. Stay safe, stay warm, and share how your area is handling the first big blast of the season below.