December 23, 1998 (1:15PM)
Looks like a white Christmas for us in Delaware County this
year, but the question is when will it start, when will
it end, and how much snow do we end up with? Let's dive right into
this forecast. The remainder of this afternoon will be
mostly cloudy and cold with highs struggling to get above
30 degrees. We should see some light snow or flurry activity
developing here after 8:00PM. The snow will be variable
depending on your exact location. Snow will be moderate at
times and non-existent at times as well. Low in the low to
mid 20's. Models are still
disagreeing on exact speed of this system. Some sweep it
through our area by mid-morning on Christmas Eve while other
models, such as the MRF, keep a more prolonged period of snow
upon us. My call is for snow to end by midday tomorrow with the
chance for a flurry or maybe a period of snow showers through
tomorrow evening. Total accumulations expected through
noon tomorrow: For our area (Delaware County),
I am sticking with my guns and calling for a coating up to
two inches. The reason I am staying on the low side is becasue
the atmosphere is still very dry. It will have to 'snow in
the upper levels' for a while before the air is saturated enough
to produce snow at the surface. By that time, I think the initial heavy
band of moisture will be past us. The snow will
be intermittent throughout the night and early morning
tomorrow before it ends. However, there is still some uncertainty
on when it will exit. Now, places to our north and west
will see less snow, maybe up to an inch. Places south of
the Mason Dixon line will be in the heavier precip band. Places
like Dover and South Jersey could see anywhere from 2-4 inches
before it is over. The snow may even mix with or turn to
sleet for a while tomorrow morning. I will be updating
this forecast this evening so check back for any updates. All
in all, this is not a huge storm, but our area is unaccustomed
to snow after the lack of it the past two years. Hence,
use caution when driving. Road conditions can and usually do
deteriorate rapidly. Take care.
