Brutal Cold and Snow to Hit Northeast This Weekend

Frigid temperatures and accumulating snow expected across the region.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

A winter storm is set to bring the coldest air of the season to parts of the Northeast this weekend, with snow, strong winds, and dangerously low wind chills. Some areas could see up to 4 inches of snow, while wind chills could plummet to 30 below zero in the hardest hit regions.

Why it matters

The extreme cold and wintry conditions pose a risk to public safety, with the potential for power outages, dangerous travel, and health hazards like frostbite. This storm is a stark reminder of the region's vulnerability to harsh winter weather and the importance of preparedness.

The details

The storm will begin on Friday with light snow showers in the Midwest, before spreading snow across Appalachia and into the Northeast on Friday evening. The heaviest snow is expected in New England, where 2 to 4 inches could accumulate. Strong winds will accompany the snow, leading to brutal wind chills as low as 35 below zero in some areas. Temperatures will struggle to reach the 20s in New York City on Saturday, with lows dropping into the single digits by Sunday morning.

  • On Friday morning, a quick snow shower will move through Michigan, Indiana and Ohio.
  • Friday afternoon, snow will fall from eastern Kentucky through western Pennsylvania.
  • On Friday evening, scattered snow will be across Appalachia, from the Smoky Mountains to upstate New York.
  • On Saturday, snow will fall over New England — mainly for all areas north of New York City.
  • High temperatures in New York City will only reach the 20s on Saturday and the teens on Sunday.

The players

Northeast

The region of the United States that includes the states of New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

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What’s next

As the storm system moves through, meteorologists will continue to monitor conditions and issue updates on snowfall totals, wind speeds, and the potential for power outages and dangerous travel. Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay up-to-date on the latest weather forecasts and take necessary precautions.

The takeaway

This winter storm is a stark reminder of the Northeast's vulnerability to harsh winter weather, and the importance of being prepared for extreme cold, snow, and high winds. By staying informed and taking necessary safety measures, residents can help mitigate the risks posed by this type of severe weather event.