Significant Temperature Drop Expected Across the US

A significant drop in temperatures is expected across the United States, marking the first official freezing temperatures of the fall season, with some areas experiencing the coldest start since 1931. Thursday will see 62 million Americans facing freezing temperatures and wind chills, while 127 million will have highs below 50 degrees, with the cold air primarily coming from Canada. Wind gusts up to 40 mph are expected, increasing fire danger in some areas, and a Lake Wind Advisory is in effect, warning of hazardous conditions for small watercraft. A winter storm warning is issued for parts of Pennsylvania and West Virginia with potential snow accumulations between six and twelve inches. The weekend will see a slight warm-up, but another cold front is expected to bring cooler weather and potential precipitation by Thanksgiving. Residents are advised to prepare for hard freezes, particularly in areas prone to frost and colder temperatures.