Virginia is bracing for a significant winter storm this weekend, with forecasts predicting potential impacts across a large area. This storm is driven by an upper-level low interacting with Arctic air, leading to widespread precipitation. While exact details remain uncertain, the likelihood of significant snow accumulation, along with possible sleet and freezing rain, is growing.
Expected Storm Impacts this Weekend
The approaching winter storm is anticipated to affect much of the central and eastern United States. Virginia, in particular, may see substantial winter weather effects starting this weekend. Current forecasts suggest at least six inches of snow may be possible, with some areas potentially experiencing more depending on storm dynamics.
Possible Snowfall Totals
- Forecast indicates snow accumulations of 6+ inches.
- Potential for a mix of sleet or freezing rain, especially near the North Carolina border.
- Last significant snowfall of this magnitude was in December 2018.
Some smartphone weather applications are predicting higher snowfall totals, reflecting ongoing model updates. Yet, experts advise caution, as these predictions represent just a fraction of the overall data available.
Understanding the Storm Setup
This weekend’s weather event is distinct from typical snowfall patterns in the region. Unlike common Miller A storms that yield heavy snow from the Gulf, this winter storm is categorized as an overrunning setup. It involves moisture traveling into cold air rather than forming from a coastal low-pressure system.
This shift in dynamics increases the likelihood of mixed precipitation, which could impact overall snowfall totals as sleet and freezing rain could detract from snow accumulation.
Potential Consequences of Mixed Precipitation
- Sleet accumulation could reduce total snow depth.
- Freezing rain may create dangerous icy conditions.
- Temperature forecasts show lows in the teens and 20s during the storm.
The presence of sleet or ice may vary across different parts of Virginia, with southern regions more susceptible to these mixed conditions. As a result, significant disparities in snowfall totals could emerge throughout the region.
Forecasting Challenges Ahead
Meteorologists will need to monitor the situation closely as the storm approaches. The interplay of Arctic air and atmospheric moisture will be critical in determining how the storm evolves.
Temperatures are expected to remain low, raising concerns about hazardous road conditions. Various factors can shift the storm’s trajectory, potentially resulting in unexpected weather outcomes.
Will This Be the ‘Big One’?
Many locals are wondering if this storm will meet the threshold of “the big one.” For many, this term refers to receiving 12 or more inches of snow over a substantial area of Southwest and Southside Virginia. Each decade typically sees two significant storms of this caliber. With the last notable one in December 2018, residents are keenly awaiting updates.
By Friday evening, more detailed forecasts should clarify whether this storm will indeed be a significant snowfall event or if it will lead to a messy mix of conditions instead.
Stay informed by following El-Balad as weather updates unfold. Virginia’s winter weather is unpredictable, making timely information paramount in preparing for what lies ahead.
