‘Tis the season for big winter chills.

If you’re heading east for the holidays, grab those heavy jackets before heading to the airport. A blast of Arctic air is forecast to sink south into the Lower 48.


What You Need To Know

  • A strong ridge will keep temperatures above-average across the West Coast

  • Temperatures east of the Rockies will plummet next week

  • Snow storm odds increase for the East Coast

  • Got a snow craving? Head to our local mountains!

A gorgeous, white Christmas is a dream for many snow lovers. Those snow lovers on the East Coast may be in luck this season as models are hinting at the possibility of much colder air moving in just in time for the holiday.

Big winter chill ahead for Christmas weekend east of the Rockies

(WeatherBell)
(WeatherBell)

Heading east this Christmas? It’s about to get cold. A blast of frigid air is forecast to sink south into the Lower 48 next week, leading to wind chills as cold as -40 degrees possible for the Northern Plains.

Where is the chill coming from? The chilly air mass is coming all the way from Siberia and the Arctic. The coldest of the air will set up just east of the Rockies, but the air looks to spread as far as Florida late next week.

At the same time, a significant winter storm is possible for the northeast. We’re still days away from knowing the details of this potential snow event, but if all ingredients come together, the east coast could be in for a mess of a Christmas week. 

Staying on the West Coast? Santa may need board shorts

While the rest of the country will be donning their finest parkas this Christmas, we can bring back out the flip-flops!

(Climate Prediction Center)
(Climate Prediction Center)

After several days of below-average temperatures, a strong and persistent ridge of high pressure is set up west of the Rockies. 

Temperatures will be on the warming trend next week with highs in the mid-70s expected to last through the weekend. 

If you’re looking for snow, head to our local mountain resorts! Following Monday’s storm, elevations higher than 6,000 feet got some fresh, natural power that is perfect for ski, snowboard and snowball fight enthusiasts. 

Have a very Merry Christmas, and stay aware of the forecast no matter where you decide to spend the holidays!

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.