Cold January Across the East: January has been much colder than usual for areas east of the Rockies, with temperatures averaging 6 or more degrees below normal in places like the South, Ohio Valley, mid-Atlantic, and parts of the Plains.
Top 10 Coldest Januarys: Several locations, mainly in the South and East, were on track to experience one of their top 10 coldest Januarys due to persistent cold during the month.
Change in Weather Pattern: As January ends, the weather pattern is shifting to milder conditions for many areas east of the Rockies, including a warmer weekend for the start of February.
Warm Temperatures for the South and Midwest: Many regions, especially the South, will see temperatures in the 60s and 70s, with the Midwest and mid-Atlantic experiencing highs in the upper 40s and 50s.
Southeast Remains Mild: While northern areas may experience some cooler fronts after the weekend, the Southeast is expected to remain mild for the foreseeable future.
Jet Stream Shift: The change in temperatures is driven by a shift in the jet stream, which has transitioned from sharp southward plunges to a more west-to-east orientation, allowing milder air to move north.
Chillier Conditions in the North: Despite the overall warming trend, parts of New England, the Northern Plains, and the Northwest are likely to remain chilly as February begins.