Winter isn’t playing around this week. A powerful polar vortex is swooping down over New York City, and it’s set to deliver some of the coldest temperatures we’ve seen in years. Expect daytime highs stuck in the 20s°F and nighttime lows that could dip into the teens or even single digits. But the real kicker? The wind chill will make it feel like zero degrees—or worse. With possible snow or ice in the forecast, it’s time to layer up, stay indoors when you can, and prepare for a week of arctic chill.
Why Is It So Cold?
Blame the polar vortex. This giant pocket of cold air usually stays up near the Arctic, but when it shifts, it sends icy blasts south. This time, NYC is getting hit directly, and the cold air will settle over the city for several days.
Starting Monday night, temperatures will begin to plummet. By Tuesday, the highs will barely make it out of the low 20s°F (-6°C), and once the sun goes down, the mercury will drop into the teens or lower. But it’s not just the temperatures—you’ll feel the wind, too. Gusts will make it feel much colder, with wind chills in the single digits and possibly below zero.
How Long Will It Last?
The cold snap will peak around midweek, with Wednesday and Thursday expected to be the coldest days. By Friday and into the weekend, temperatures should begin to rise slightly, but they’ll still be colder than usual for February.
Will There Be Snow or Ice?
Maybe. Forecasters are tracking a storm system that could hit midweek, bringing light snow or freezing rain. Even a small amount of precipitation could make things tricky. Slippery sidewalks and icy roads could lead to dangerous commutes, especially in the early morning and late at night when temperatures are at their lowest.
Drivers should be prepared for potential icy patches, and public transit users may face delays if conditions worsen.
Frostbite and Hypothermia: Know the Warning Signs
This isn’t just about being uncomfortable—this kind of cold can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Frostbite can happen quickly on exposed skin, and hypothermia is a serious risk for anyone spending long periods outside without proper protection.
Watch for these signs of frostbite:
- Numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation
- Pale, waxy, or cold skin
- Pain followed by numbness in areas like the fingers, toes, nose, or ears
Signs of hypothermia include:
- Shivering (which may stop as hypothermia worsens)
- Confusion or difficulty speaking
- Fatigue, dizziness, or drowsiness
If you notice any of these signs, get inside immediately and warm up slowly. Don’t ignore the symptoms—frostbite and hypothermia can become life-threatening if left untreated.
How to Stay Safe During the Cold Snap
- Dress in Layers: Wear thermal undergarments, a heavy coat, gloves, scarves, hats, and warm boots. Cover any exposed skin, especially your hands and face.
- Limit Time Outdoors: If you don’t have to be outside, stay in. If you do go out, take frequent breaks indoors to warm up.
- Check Your Heating: Make sure your heating system is working and keep extra blankets on hand.
- Stay Cautious on the Roads: Snow or ice could create slick conditions, so drive slowly and avoid unnecessary trips.
- Check on Neighbors and Family: Elderly neighbors or people with limited heating may need help staying warm.
Will the Cold Break by the Weekend?
There’s a light at the end of this freezing tunnel. By Friday, temperatures should start to rise, with daytime highs climbing into the 30s°F. It’ll still be chilly, but compared to what’s coming earlier in the week, it’ll feel like a warm-up.
For now, though, prepare for the worst of winter. Bundle up, check on your loved ones, and make sure you’ve got everything you need to stay warm and safe. This kind of cold isn’t just inconvenient—it can be dangerous if you’re not prepared.