Polar vortex set to freeze the U.S. as far as the Deep South

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Colder air from Siberia is forecasted to hit nearly 300 million Americans in the coming weekend, bringing harsher arctic conditions. Maps are showing arrival patterns for the cold front.

Thursday through Sunday is expected to be the coldest period in many areas, making it essential for residents to dress warmly and to stay informed for any potential disruptions.

The polar vortex is a massive area of frigid air and low atmospheric pressure that usually spins over the Arctic and Antarctic regions. During the winter season, and when the jet stream endeavors cooperate, this cold air can sink further south into lower latitudes, such as areas in the United States. Forecasters predict this can happen as soon as this weekend.

Map of Saturday Highs and Wind Chills

Beginning this Saturday, the polar vortex will start moving into the upper part of the U.S., causing temperatures to drop into the single digits. Wind chills in that area will already be expected to reach into the negative teens. Forecast temperatures will be 20-25 degrees lower than average for this time of year.

* Wind chill: 40 degrees Fahrenheit

Attendees of NFL playoff games can expect unusually cold weather. Temperatures are predicted to drop 25-30 degrees below the average temperature for this time of year.

Map of Monday Highs and Wind Chills

Some regions may not rise above single-digit temperatures.

Temperatures are forecast to reach record lows in at least 19 areas from the Plains to the East. Forecast highs will be 25 to 30 degrees lower than what is typical for this time of year.

Weather forecast for Inauguration Day in Washington, D.C.

On Monday in Washington, D.C., expect mostly sunny skies, with temperatures forecast to be in the low 20s. Wind chills are expected to be in the single digits.

In the Capitol Rotunda, instead of the stage set up outdoors,

On Truth Social: "I truly don't want to see harm inflicted upon people or for anyone to get hurt in any way."

This will be the coldest Inauguration Day in the last 40 years. In 1985, it was only seven degrees when President Ronald Reagan took the oath of office for a second time, forcing the ceremony to be held indoors and the parade to be canceled.