NEW YORK (IPU NEWS— Millions of people in the northeastern **United States** are bracing for what weather authorities describe as the coldest and most dangerous weekend of the winter, as an Arctic air mass brings extreme temperatures, health risks, and potential disruptions to essential services.
The National Weather Service warned that the influx of polar air will cause temperatures to drop sharply starting Friday, with wind chills potentially reaching dangerous levels in states such as New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
### Extreme wind chills and health risks
Meteorologists indicated that in some areas, the wind chill could drop below **-25°C (-13°F)** or even lower during the early morning hours. Health authorities warned of the risk of hypothermia and frostbite within minutes if people remain outdoors without adequate protection.
State and local governments have issued extreme cold warnings and urged residents to limit outdoor exposure, check heating systems, and assist vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or homeless.
In cities like Boston and New York, emergency shelters and warming centers are expected to open for those who need to take refuge from the extreme temperatures.
### Potential service disruptions
Utility companies are preparing for high energy demand due to increased heating use. Authorities warned that isolated power outages or transportation problems could occur if conditions worsen.
The intense cold is also expected to affect infrastructure, such as water pipes and transportation systems, and complicate travel over the weekend.
Some airlines have indicated that they are monitoring the situation for possible flight delays or cancellations at airports in the Northeast. ### A change in weather pattern expected next week
Despite the intensity of the cold wave, meteorologists anticipate that the episode will be relatively brief. A gradual increase in temperatures is expected starting next week, with a milder pattern that could bring an end to the most extreme winter conditions.
The contrast between the Arctic cold this weekend and the subsequent warming could lead to ice and melting snow, which also poses risks on roads and in urban areas.
### Preparations and recommendations
Local authorities recommend that residents:
* Avoid prolonged exposure to the cold.
* Dress in layers and cover extremities.
* Maintain supplies of food and medication.
* Check heating systems and pipes.
* Stay informed about weather updates.
As the region prepares to face the coldest weather of the winter, officials reiterated that the priority is to protect vulnerable communities and ensure the continuity of essential services until the expected warmer temperatures arrive.
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