NYC Faces Longest Freeze Since 2003 Due to Polar Vortex

Temperatures expected to remain below freezing for up to 12 straight days in the Big Apple.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 7:55pm

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New York City is bracing for a prolonged stretch of frigid weather as a stratospheric polar vortex has settled over the region, potentially keeping temperatures below freezing for up to 12 consecutive days - the longest such streak since 2003.

Why it matters

The extended cold snap could pose challenges for New Yorkers, from increased heating costs to disruptions to daily life. It also highlights the growing impact of climate change-fueled weather patterns, with polar vortexes becoming more frequent and severe.

The details

According to AccuWeather Meteorologist Chad Merrill, temperatures in New York City have remained below freezing since Friday and are expected to stay that way until at least early next week. If the mercury fails to rise above 32 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday, that would mark 12 straight days of sub-freezing temps - the longest such streak in the Big Apple since 2003.

  • Temperatures have remained below freezing since Friday, January 24, 2026.
  • The potential 12-day streak of below-freezing temps would last until Monday, February 3, 2026.

The players

Chad Merrill

An AccuWeather Meteorologist who provided insights on the prolonged cold spell in New York City.

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What they’re saying

“A big ridge of high pressure has built across Alaska and the western US, so that just drains the cold air straight from the Arctic down into our region.”

— Chad Merrill, AccuWeather Meteorologist

What’s next

Forecasters warn that the upcoming winter storm on Saturday and Sunday, coinciding with a full moon on February 1st, could also bring coastal erosion and flooding impacts to the region.

The takeaway

This prolonged cold spell highlights the growing threat of climate change-fueled weather patterns, with polar vortexes becoming more frequent and severe. New Yorkers will need to brace for increased heating costs and potential disruptions to daily life during this extended freeze.