This post summarizes the incoming cold snap moving across much of the northern and eastern United States. It covers National Weather Service alerts in effect and practical, experience-based steps you can take to protect plants, plumbing, and property.
Drawing on decades of fieldwork and emergency response coordination, I explain what to expect and where the risks are highest. I also share how to reduce damage from sub-freezing temperatures and accompanying winds.
Overview of the cold snap and affected regions
The National Weather Service has issued freeze warnings and frost advisories across 13 states. These include Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.
Temperatures are forecast to dip into the low to mid-20s Fahrenheit in some locations. This marks one of the coldest air masses so far this season.
Boston’s NWS office described the incoming air mass as the coldest of the season. Mount Holly’s NWS warned that strong, damaging winds could accompany the front, increasing the risk of toppled trees and power outages.
Freeze warnings are expected to persist until about 8 or 9 a.m. Friday in many areas. The cold front will move through during this time.
Immediate impacts to homes, gardens, and infrastructure
When temperatures fall below freezing, tender plants, immature crops, and exposed vegetation are at high risk of damage. Outdoor plumbing and sprinkler systems can freeze and burst, creating costly repairs and water loss.
Strong winds raise another layer of risk by increasing heat loss from structures. They may also down tree limbs and power lines.
What to do now: practical protection steps
Act quickly if you have unprotected plants, exposed pipes, or unsecured outdoor items. The following checklist represents tried-and-true measures I’ve recommended over decades of cold-weather incidents.
- Move potted plants indoors or into a sheltered space like a garage or shed.
- Cover in-ground or delicate shrubs with frost cloths, blankets, or burlap—avoid plastic directly on foliage.
- Mulch soil around vulnerable plants to retain ground heat.
- Drain in-ground sprinkler systems and insulate or cover above-ground hoses and spigots.
- Wrap, insulate, or slowly drip outdoor pipes to prevent freezing and bursting—open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate near indoor plumbing.
- Secure outdoor furniture, signs, and lightweight structures to reduce wind-driven damage and debris hazards.
Preparing for power outages and wind damage
Wind-driven outages are a real concern with this system. Ensure flashlights, batteries, and an emergency kit are accessible.
If you use a generator, review safe operation practices now. Never run generators indoors and keep them well away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
Trim weak or overhanging branches if time allows. Avoid parking vehicles under large trees during the event.
If you encounter downed power lines, maintain a wide berth. Report them to local utility services immediately.
Monitoring and final recommendations
Officials will continue issuing updates as conditions evolve.
Keep a reliable weather source handy—your local NWS office or weather alert apps—and heed any additional advisories or warnings.
If you manage crops or commercial outdoor systems, consider contacting agricultural extension services for crop-specific guidance.
Here is the source article for this story: Millions face plummeting sub-freezing temperatures in 13 states