Northeast Braces for More Snow After Spring Tease

Coastal areas to see brief warm-up before winter's final blast hits the region late next week.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 9:40pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Northeast is in for a weather whiplash this weekend, with coastal areas experiencing a brief spring-like warm-up while interior regions prepare for another round of snow. However, the battle between spring and winter is far from over, as a split in the polar vortex could bring another blast of cold air and more snow late next week.

Why it matters

The unpredictable weather patterns in the Northeast are a challenge for residents and businesses, as they must constantly adapt to rapidly changing conditions. This late-season snow could disrupt travel, cause power outages, and impact agriculture and other industries that are sensitive to sudden temperature drops.

The details

A clipper system is expected to bring 2-4 inches of snow to the Great Lakes, interior Northeast, and New England late Friday into early Saturday. Meanwhile, the Interstate 95 corridor, including New York City, could see temperatures climb into the mid-50s on Saturday and potentially reach 65 degrees on Sunday. However, the respite from winter will be short-lived, as a split in the polar vortex could plunge temperatures back into the 30s across the region late next week.

  • Late Friday into early Saturday, 2-4 inches of snow expected in the Great Lakes, interior Northeast, and New England.
  • Saturday, temperatures to climb into the mid-50s along the Interstate 95 corridor.
  • Sunday, potential for temperatures to reach 65 degrees in New York City.
  • Sunday night, severe storms expected to develop over the Ohio Valley and reach the East Coast.
  • Late next week, a split in the polar vortex could bring another blast of cold air and more snow to the region.

The players

Northeast

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

Polar Vortex

A large area of low pressure and cold air surrounding both of the Earth's poles. A split in the polar vortex can lead to a release of cold air and the potential for more severe winter weather.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Colder air on the north side of the sprawling system may allow for widespread snow across interior New England and upstate New York with even the possibility of some icing.”

— FOX Forecast Center

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This late-season weather pattern highlights the unpredictable nature of spring in the Northeast, where residents must be prepared for sudden shifts between warm and cold conditions. The potential for more snow and cold air late next week underscores the need for continued vigilance and adaptability as the region navigates the transition to warmer weather.