Millions of Americans Thrust Back to Winter With Heavy Snow Warnings, Temperature Drops Expected
The calendar says it's April, but the weather says it's still winter for millions of Americans dealing with unseasonably cold weather this month. For a brief amount of time, it was warm again, but temperatures are plunging once again across the U.S., and heavy snow warnings are expected to follow.
Residents from the Midwest to Northeast are dealing with a massive temperature drop. In just a day's time, the area has gone from summer weather in the 70s back to a December-type forecast, with temperatures falling as much as 60 degrees. So, put away those shorts and warm-weather clothing, and hopefully you still have that winter coat in the closet.
Snow Expected for Sunday, April 19, in the Midwest and Northeast, as Winter Flexes Its Muscles Again
According to the weather experts at AccuWeather, by Sunday, April 19, temperatures are expected to have fallen by anywhere from 20 to 60 degrees in the Midwest and Northeast.
"In a few places in northern New York and northwestern New England on Sunday, cold air may arrive quickly enough for rain along the front to briefly mix with or change to snow," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Matt Benz stated.
In a statement provided to Men's Journal, AccuWeather stated, "A storm and cold front will push colder air eastward this weekend, with temperatures dropping 50-60 degrees in some locations."
In addition, their meteorologists warn that freezing conditions are expected by Monday and Tuesday in areas of Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, "with pockets reaching coastal areas."
There's a strong risk of freezing early Monday, April 20, that will go from Minnesota to northern Pennsylvania, as well as into upstate New York and northern New England. If you have plants in these areas, take proper precautions. Heavy snow warnings are also a possibility in higher elevations.
"The abrupt freeze risk may damage buds, blossoms and early-season crops," AccuWeather added, "with potential downstream effects on fruit production and agricultural supply chains."
'Hard Freeze' Coming to Areas of the U.S. This Week
These areas also may experience a "hard freeze" going into Tuesday, April 21. So, relief isn't really in sight yet, when it comes to these cold temperatures.
The Farmer's Almanac suggests to protect plants by covering them "to create a temporary pocket of warmer air." I've personally done this, and it works well, as they suggest.
"Make use of season extenders like row covers, cold frames, or cloches to protect tender plants, such as seedlings or warm-weather veggies," they add. "Row covers or garden fleece can be used to help create a warmer environment beneath them."
They also say to keep an eye on the weather forecast to know to prepare ahead of time for a hard freeze on plants. The good news is that eventually, summer will be here, and these cold weather patterns will be gone until at least September.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
2026 The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved.
This story was originally published April 19, 2026 at 7:01 AM.