We knew that this winter would be one to remember, as many suggested it could be the coldest in quite some time. Although NOAA predicted a warm winter back in October due to the presence of La Nina conditions, more recent forecasts point to a long, frigid winter. Over the past few weeks, we have seen weather patterns bring in new cold fronts, but this week it has picked up enormously, bringing some of the coldest weather we will see all season in major U.S. cities.

Some areas of the United States are experiencing weather that could cause frostbite in minutes this week, with temperatures and wind chills making 16 degrees feel like twenty below. Indianapolis will experience their coldest week of the season this week, but some people sporting their red and black in “Naptown” feel quite warm after the Bulldogs rout of the Crimson Tide during last night’s national championship game in Lucas Oil Stadium. Aside from cities like Indianapolis that are used to this weather, Boston and New York will both be under deep freeze warnings that could become very dangerous for road conditions.

This graph shows the extent to which the country is experiencing colder weather. With this weather and extreme freezing in some places, black ice and frozen roads are the main concern, as trucks would not be able to continue deliveries. Yesterday, over half of the entire United States population was in weather with freezing conditions, with over 10 million in below freezing conditions. We don’t know how long it will last, but it is time to start activating those hand warmers and cozy up for the The Long Night.

With temperatures plunging, now is also a good time to re-assess your winter fuel strategy to make sure your fleet is prepared. If you haven’t already checked out our Winter Fuel Preparation Guide, download it now and make sure you have everything you need to keep your diesel engines running through frigid weather.