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By Tom Howarth
Science Reporter (Nature)
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The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for parts of southeast Alabama, the Florida Panhandle, and southern Georgia, in response to dangerously low temperatures.
The cold this week is life-threatening, with the NWS warning, "Very cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure."
The warning remains in effect until 10 a.m. ET Thursday, with extended cold weather advisories across Louisiana and the Carolinas, and the rest of Gulf Coast into the evening.
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Residents are urged to take precautions, including wearing protective clothing, wrapping outdoor pipes, and ensuring pets have access to warm shelter.
Why This Matters
The extreme cold comes in the wake of a historic winter storm that shattered snowfall records and brought blizzard conditions to regions unaccustomed to such weather.
Cities like Houston, Lafayette and Milton, Florida, reported record snow accumulations, with Louisiana's Grand Coteau seeing an unprecedented 13.4 inches.
AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter described the event as "a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people" in a statement sent to the media, noting that major cities will likely remain paralyzed for days.
What is Causing the Cold Weather in the South
An Arctic air mass is blanketing the eastern two-thirds of the United States, bringing extreme cold to vast portions of the country, according to the NWS.
Several factors are contributing to the dangerous cold. One key influence is the polar vortex, which is currently both strong and elongated. This phenomenon has caused a southward shift in the jet stream, allowing Arctic air to surge deep into the continental U.S., according to federal researchers.
Additionally, a robust ridge of high pressure near Alaska is further amplifying the effect. This ridge is forcing the jet stream to dip unusually far south, funneling frigid Arctic air across the country.
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How Much Snow Has Fallen in the South?
The recent winter storm brought unprecedented snowfall to several areas in the South, shattering long-standing records.
In Milton, Florida, 9.8 inches of snow fell, breaking a state record that had stood since 1954.
Lafayette, Louisiana, experienced a staggering 10.5 inches of snow, while Grand Coteau, Louisiana, saw an astounding 13.4 inches, the highest total recorded during the storm, according to AccuWeather.
The Houston area reported snowfall ranging from 2 to 4 inches, while snow drifts reached as far as Gulf Coast beaches—an exceedingly rare phenomenon.
What People Are Saying
Porter said: "Snow totals near a foot are extreme in this part of the country. The widespread impacts, disruptions and highway closures have cost businesses billions in losses."
Grady Gilman, a meteorologist at AccuWeather, told Newsweek: "Once the snow starts, area roads may have travel restrictions or reduced speed limits. If anyone has to be out during the storm, it is advisable to heed all travel restrictions and guidelines on area roads. People should also make sure they have an emergency kit in their cars with food, water and blankets in case they become stranded during a major storm."
What Happens Next
The cold will linger, with morning lows dipping below freezing through Saturday along the Gulf Coast and northern Florida.
Icy dangers will persist due to thaw and freeze cycles, especially on untreated roads and sidewalks. Residents are encouraged to use sand or gravel on slippery surfaces and monitor weather updates closely.
A gradual warming trend is expected to begin Friday, with temperatures rebounding significantly by the weekend in central and southern Texas. However, regions farther east may experience prolonged icy conditions due to slower melting.
Do you have a tip on a science story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about the winter storm? Let us know via science@newsweek.com.
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