U.S. Snow Forecast: Snow Squalls, Ice and Frigid Cold This Weekend

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A Powerful Arctic Blast Brings Snow and Cold to Large Parts of the U.S.

A strong winter weather system is sweeping across the United States this weekend, bringing snowfall, snow squalls with gusty winds, and dangerously low temperatures from the Midwest to the Northeast and even into the South through Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026. Meteorologists warn that travel conditions may be hazardous, with sudden snow bursts and rapid visibility loss in many areas.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Weather Prediction Center, this cold air outbreak is linked to an active polar vortex pattern, which is funneling Arctic air into the central and Eastern U.S., creating conditions favorable for snow and frigid temperatures through the weekend.

Key Weather Hazards This Weekend

Snow Squalls and Sudden Whiteouts

• Snow squalls — brief but intense bursts of snow and wind — have been reported in places like northeastern Ohio, Pennsylvania, and parts of eastern New York, causing quick drops in visibility and slippery roads.

• These conditions can create dangerous travel situations with little to no warning, especially on major highways.

Snowfall Forecast by Region

Here’s a breakdown of expected snowfall and winter conditions over the January 17–18 weekend:

Snowfall Forecast by Region

Note: Snow amounts can vary significantly depending on storm track and local temperatures.

Read more: Coldest Night of the Season: Rain, Snow Mix and Dangerous Cold Hit New York

Dangerous Travel, Airport Delays and Road Impacts

Several major metropolitan regions, including New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, and Connecticut, are already reporting travel disruptions from early snow events this weekend. Snow and icy surfaces have led to traffic accidents and flight cancellations, and officials continue to urge caution for motorists.

Rising snow totals on Sunday, along with bitter cold temperatures and possible wind gusts, will make slick roads a serious concern through the weekend and into early next week in these areas.

Temperatures: Bitter Cold Across the Strip

With the Arctic air mass in place, forecasts show below-average temperatures and cold wind chills through Jan. 18 and possibly beyond. The Weather Prediction Center notes sub-zero wind chill values from the Plains into the Midwest and Northeast by Sunday night.

This means that exposed skin can become cold quickly in just a short time, and winter travelers should prepare for frigid conditions along with precipitation.

What’s Next After the Weekend?

Long-range outlooks from climate prediction maps suggest continued cold and potentially snowy conditions into late January, with fluctuations in temperature and additional snow chances later in the month.

As this Arctic outbreak evolves, residents along the storm’s path should stay updated with forecasts and warnings from the National Weather Service.

Conclusion

This weekend’s winter weather system is shaping up to be a significant event for many Americans, from the Upper Midwest to the Northeast. With snow squalls, accumulating snow, and dangerous travel conditions likely, the Jan. 17–18 storm emphasizes the need for preparation and caution on the roads.