A significant winter storm is on the radar for many regions this weekend. Affected areas will include parts of Texas, the Deep South, and extending through the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Current expectations indicate substantial snow accumulation, especially in the northern sections.
Storm Timing and Forecast
The storm is projected to start primarily on Sunday morning, just after sunrise, and continue through Sunday night. The most intense snowfall rates, potentially reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour, are forecasted for late Sunday morning through late Sunday afternoon.
Shifting Storm Track
- Initially, the storm was expected to track south, limiting heavy snowfall.
- Recent updates suggest a coastal low may veer further north, affecting forecast outcomes.
This change could result in widespread moderate to heavy snowfall for the entire area on Sunday.
Type of Snow Expected
Given the frigid Arctic air in place, the precipitation is anticipated to be mostly snow, with temperatures remaining in the teens throughout the weekend. The expected snowfall is likely to be light and powdery. Some mild mixing may occur from the I-95 corridor to the Jersey and Delaware shore, but heavy snow will likely precede any mix.
Predicted Snowfall Totals
Snow accumulation estimates remain uncertain, but the probabilities are becoming clearer:
- A 90% or higher chance of at least 6 inches of snow across the region.
- A 50% probability that some areas will receive a foot (12 inches) or more.
- A lower, yet notable, 10% chance of snow totals reaching at least 18 inches in select locations.
Future Updates and Snow Maps
Forecasting models are still in development. Snowfall maps are anticipated to be released by Thursday evening or Friday morning, ideally providing clearer predictions within 48 hours of the storm’s start. However, uncertainties may persist until models align more closely.
Summary of Expectations
In summary, a major snow event is increasingly expected this Sunday and Sunday night. A minimum accumulation of 6 inches seems highly likely, with a potential for totals exceeding a foot in many regions. Bitterly cold temperatures will persist throughout the weekend and into the following week.
Stay tuned for updates from El-Balad as more information regarding snowfall amounts and timing becomes available.
