This week, northern and central parts of the US are bracing for a dramatic shift in temperatures. Wisconsin, for instance, is set to challenge its February record on Tuesday with a forecast high of 17°C (63°F), just above the 2000 record of 16.5°C (62°F) at Stevens Point.
However, this warm spell will be fleeting. By Tuesday evening, a broad low-pressure system will bring heavy rain, which will transition to snow as temperatures plummet to freezing.
By Wednesday morning, temperatures could drop to -8°C, representing a sudden 25°C plunge within just 12 hours.
A powerful jet stream is making transatlantic flights 30-60 minutes faster than usual.Wind gusts up to 30 mph (48 km/h) may cause wind chills to plummet as low as -22°C in northern regions of the state. Following this cold snap, temperatures will rebound by the weekend, with some areas expected to rise to double digits.
For those looking to escape the cold, a quick trip to Europe might be appealing, thanks to an exceptionally strong jet stream.
This high-altitude current of air, flowing from west to east at 30,000-40,000 feet, has been accelerating transatlantic flights, cutting travel times by 30-60 minutes.
Last week, a New York to Lisbon flight reached a ground speed of 835 mph, significantly faster than usual, thanks to this powerful jet stream.
The jet stream’s intensity has likely been influenced by the stark temperature contrasts in the US. With a similar sharp temperature swing expected this week, the jet stream is anticipated to remain robust, continuing to benefit eastbound flights.