Freeze Warnings from the Apartment Complex
Every time temperatures are forecast below freezing, I get an email from my apartment complex. The email typically issues a freeze warning and advises residents to drip their faucets and open cabinet doors. While the information is useful, sometimes it’s sent even when it’s not absolutely necessary.
The Arrival of the Coldest Temperatures of 2025
Earlier this week, we received a freeze warning, and it was certainly needed as we were about to experience some of the coldest temperatures of 2025. Currently, it is 21 degrees in Springfield, but temperatures are even colder further north, with Minneapolis seeing -3 degrees.
Polar Vortex Impact on Millions
It’s estimated that 120 million Americans, roughly a third of the population, are experiencing sub-zero temperatures due to this polar vortex. While Springfield hasn’t hit sub-zero, we’re only a couple of degrees warmer, and it’s very close.
Frigid Feels-Like Temperatures
The current feels-like temperature forecast for Springfield is 8 degrees, whereas Bismarck is at an unbearable -32 degrees. This polar vortex is an unusual pattern, bringing frigid weather deep into the southern United States.
Winter Storm Shifts Further South
Last week, I mentioned to watch out around Martin Luther King Jr. Day for cold weather and a potential winter storm. While I was right about the storm, I was wrong about its location. The polar vortex has pushed the winter storm’s spread further south, affecting places like Texas and Florida.
Dealing with Cold Weather Over the Next Few Days
For us, this means dealing with cold weather over the next few days. Today is only the first day, and it is expected to be the warmest. Some light flurries are happening now but are not expected to accumulate significantly. Tomorrow should be sunnier, but unfortunately, not warmer or more enjoyable.
Snow Flurries on Monday Evening
As we move into Monday, temperatures will remain cold, with a chance of snow flurries or a snow shower in the evening. It’s not likely to cause any school or business closures, but the opportunity for some snow is there.
Freezing Nights Ahead
Tonight’s temperatures will hover just above single digits, at around 10 degrees in Springfield. The wind forecast remains harsh, making Sunday the worst day of this cold stretch, with temperatures stuck in the teens and feels-like temperatures even lower.
Bitterly Cold Sunday Night
By Sunday night, temperatures are forecasted to drop to 2 degrees, slightly above negative. While this is a bit of good news, it’s still colder than many places in the United States can handle. Monday will see a slight improvement with temperatures rising from 17 to 19 degrees.
Prolonged Below-Freezing Weather
Tuesday will continue to be cold, and we won’t get above freezing until Saturday. Every day this week is expected to be below average temperatures. During this extreme cold period, it’s important to check on your neighbors, especially the elderly, and ensure that pets are safe. Extreme cold can be deadly, and it’s essential to stay bundled up if you need to go outside.