The polar vortex is an area of cold air that circulates around the Arctic. That area can shift and expand, bringing lower temperatures further south than usual. Modelling by the independent forecaster Atmospheric and Environmental Research shows the polar vortex expanding over the US in the first two weeks of the new year.

Meteorologists predict the surge of arctic air will push south through central and eastern portions of the U.S. to start the new year, according to the Weather Prediction Center. Parts of Georgia could see temperatures as low as in the 20s by Tuesday,

The eastern half of the United States is bracing for a series of arctic air blasts, marking an abnormally cold start to 2025. The first surge of frigid temperatures will hit the Northern Plains and Midwest on Wednesday and Thursday before reaching the Northeast by the weekend.