ALABAMA — A dangerous Arctic cold front is set to plunge deep into the Southeast United States on December 14, delivering subfreezing temperatures to Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. Forecasters say the system could cause one of the most intense early-winter cold snaps in years for the region, with widespread hard freeze conditions expected from the Gulf Coast to the Appalachians.
According to forecast models, temperatures will drop into the low 20s across central Alabama and Georgia, with upper teens possible in northern Mississippi and Tennessee. Even parts of the Mississippi Gulf Coast could see lows near 29°F, while the Florida Panhandle might dip into the mid-30s by sunrise Sunday.
Deep South Braces for an Early-Season Freeze
The GFS model indicates that Arctic air will surge southward late Saturday night, locking the entire Southeast under freezing temperatures by early Sunday.
- Mississippi: Lows between 20–26°F, especially in northern counties.
- Alabama: Lows near 22°F inland, reaching the upper 20s along the Gulf Coast.
- Georgia: Lows between 19–25°F across the state.
- Temperatures in the teens with wind chills near 10°F.
- Carolinas: Lows in the upper 20s to near freezing.
Meteorologists have compared the projected cold to a “Black Friday doorbuster” cold front, joking that “Mother Nature is cashing in her hard freeze layaway early this year.” Still, officials warn the chill is no joke — the prolonged subfreezing stretch could burst pipes, kill outdoor plants, and put pets and livestock at risk.
Officials Warn: Protect People, Pets, and Plants
Weather experts across the Southeast are reminding residents to prepare for freezing conditions by following the 3 Ps:
- People: Dress in warm layers and check on neighbors and the elderly.
- Pets: Bring animals inside and provide warm shelter.
- Plants: Cover or move sensitive vegetation indoors.
Residents are also urged to insulate exposed water lines and ensure heating systems are working properly before the Arctic air arrives.
“This isn’t a minor chill — this is a deep freeze from Mississippi to Georgia,” one forecaster said. “If your pipes weren’t ready in 2014, get them ready now.”
Florida and Gulf States to Feel the Edge of the Arctic Air
While Florida will largely escape the worst of the freeze, northern areas around Tallahassee and Jacksonville could see frost with morning lows near 36–38°F. Further south, temperatures will stay mild in the 50s and 60s.
Outlook After December 14
The Arctic outbreak is expected to linger through early next week, with temperatures slowly recovering by midweek. However, another cold shot could follow before Christmas, signaling a colder-than-average December for much of the South and Southeast…