Bitter Cold Grips New England with Subzero Wind Chills

New England residents are bracing for a prolonged stretch of bitterly cold weather as temperatures plummet to the mid-teens and wind chills dip into single digits. The region is experiencing the full force of winter, with strong winds and cloudy skies exacerbating the frigid conditions.

Monday morning saw temperatures drop to the mid-to-upper teens, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Despite afternoon highs reaching the upper 20s and low 30s, a persistent breeze kept the perceived temperature around 20 degrees. The evening brought no relief, with wind chills plunging back into the teens.

Tuesday is expected to bring even harsher conditions, with wind gusts reaching 25-30 mph. These strong winds, combined with already cold temperatures, will make it feel like the teens even during the warmest part of the day. Wednesday and Thursday will offer little respite, with highs in the mid-to-upper 20s and wind chills remaining in the single digits and teens.

Friday may bring slight relief, with temperatures climbing to the low-to-mid 30s, though breezy conditions will persist. Meteorologists are also monitoring the potential for snow next weekend, though forecasts remain uncertain.

The cold snap is driven by a massive dip in the jet stream, which is funneling frigid Canadian air into the region. While a quick-moving system skirted south of New England early Saturday, the jet stream’s position has largely shielded the area from significant snowfall, with only isolated flurries reported in coastal Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Cape Cod.

Sunday is expected to be the coldest day of the week, with wind chills in the low teens across Southern New England and single digits in northern areas. The cold and windy conditions are expected to persist through the weekend, with scattered flurries possible in Western and Central Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire.

Residents are advised to bundle up and limit time outdoors as the bitter cold continues. For the latest updates, follow local weather forecasts and advisories.