Bitter Cold Ahead of Potential Weekend Storm

Forecasters warn of plunging temperatures and the possibility of a powerful winter storm this weekend.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 12:23pm

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Meteorologists are tracking an Arctic blast that will bring dangerously cold temperatures to the eastern U.S. this week, with wind chills potentially dropping below zero. They are also monitoring the potential for a powerful winter storm to develop off the Southeast coast this weekend, which could bring heavy snow, strong winds, and coastal flooding to parts of New England.

Why it matters

The extreme cold and potential for a major winter storm could have significant impacts on public safety, transportation, and daily life for residents across the region. Forecasters are closely watching the storm's track and intensity, as it could bring disruptive weather conditions depending on where it hits.

The details

The Arctic air mass moving in will drive temperatures down, with wind chills potentially reaching 24 below zero by Friday morning in some areas. Forecasters say this reinforcing shot of cold air will continue through the weekend. As for the potential weekend storm, models show a strong area of low pressure forming off the Southeast coast on Saturday, rapidly strengthening into what could be a 'bomb cyclone' by Sunday. This could bring heavy snow, strong winds of 50-60 mph, and the threat of coastal flooding, especially in southeastern Massachusetts.

  • Dangerously cold temperatures expected to arrive by Thursday morning.
  • Potential weekend storm forecast to develop off the Southeast coast on Saturday and strengthen rapidly on Sunday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

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What they’re saying

“This is extreme cold that we're looking at, and it actually gets even colder later this week. So it's something to consider as we are putting a lot of focus into the next spot on our radar, and that's the potential for another storm this weekend.”

— Kelly Ann Cicalese, Meteorologist (WCVB)

What’s next

Forecasters will continue to monitor the developing storm system and provide updates on its potential impacts as the weekend approaches.

The takeaway

Residents across the region should prepare for a prolonged period of dangerously cold temperatures and the possibility of a major winter storm disrupting plans this weekend, underscoring the need to stay vigilant and heed weather warnings from local authorities.