Arctic Blast Heads South Into Carolinas This Week

Posted Sunday, January 19, 2025 5:50 pm

By: Wise News Network Staff

Cherryville, NC (WNN) — A frigid arctic blast is heading through the Carolinas this week. The polar front made it into North Carolina on Sunday, with lightning and thunder erupting in the Cherryville, NC, area mid-afternoon on Sunday, January 19th, 2025, ahead of the front. Some accounts of hail and graupel (soft hail or snow pellets) were reported in Gaston County. Cold air will rush in behind the front later on Sunday, with temperatures dropping into the teens and possibly staying below freezing for several days in the Gaston County, NC, area.

Carolinas Low Temperature Forecast Ending 7AM Tuesday, January 21st 2025 (National Weather Service)

Carolinas High Temperature Forecast Ending 7PM Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025 (National Weather Service)

Long Duration Cold Impact

Even though temperatures in the teens are not uncommon in the area, the duration of the cold from the arctic blast could be an issue. Power will be in high demand throughout the week, straining electrical systems throughout the region. Also, ponds and standing bodies of water will freeze over, which could be dangerous if stepped upon. Outdoor water faucets and well pump piping are especially vulnerable to long periods of freezing temperatures.

Carolinas Weather Forecast 4PM Tuesday, January 21st, 2025 (National Weather Service)

Potential Wintery Weather

With arctic blast cold temperatures in place, low pressures are also predicted to form along the Gulf Coast this week, spreading snow and ice mixtures south and east in the Carolinas. Initial forecasts suggest a dusting of snow in the Gaston County area and heavier snow as you head toward the coast Tuesday into Wednesday. Below or near-freezing temperatures could last into Thursday, causing long-term freezing issues.