UPDATE: A record-setting Arctic air mass is currently gripping the Lehigh Valley, Poconos, and northwestern New Jersey, bringing life-threatening wind chills and dangerously low temperatures that are expected to last through this week. Residents are urged to take immediate precautions as conditions worsen.
The National Weather Service warns that daytime highs will struggle to reach a mere 20 degrees, with overnight lows plummeting below zero. Wind chills are forecasted to drop as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit, especially in the Poconos region, creating an urgent health risk for all residents.
A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect until 10 a.m. Wednesday for the entire area. With temperatures remaining well below freezing, residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure, dress in multiple layers, and protect their skin to prevent serious health issues like frostbite and hypothermia.
Forecasts indicate that this extreme cold will persist through the week, with highs only reaching the mid to upper teens from Wednesday through Friday. Nighttime temperatures will consistently dip into single digits or below zero. The severe wind gusts expected could exacerbate these chilling conditions, making outdoor activities extremely hazardous.
Adding to the urgency, forecasters are monitoring the potential for another snowstorm this weekend. Following Sunday’s record snowfall of 11.8 inches at Lehigh Valley International Airport, there’s a 20% to 50% chance of additional snow, depending on the location. While details remain uncertain, residents should prepare for possible disruptions.
Local authorities emphasize the importance of ensuring home heating systems are functional, protecting pipes from freezing, and checking on vulnerable neighbors and pets during this extreme weather event. The cold air mass is expected to linger into early next week, potentially challenging climate records as several weather stations may set new record low temperatures.
Stay tuned for further updates, and remember, the best defense against this severe cold is preparation and awareness. Share this news with friends and family to keep everyone informed about these dangerous conditions.
