January 27, 2004
Phase 2 of the 3-day winter storm is just about finished, with phase 3 expected to affect our region by nightfall. We received periods of freezing drizzle and light snow overnight last night which accumulated about 1/4" on all surfaces. Get your ice scrapers out because that is what you will need to de-ice your vehicles today.
Current conditions are proving to be quite different as opposed to what was forecasted by both the National Weather Service, and myself. Temperatures we 'supposed' to rise to near freezing overnight, but as I type this, our area sits at around 21F and holding steady.
As the day progresses, temperatures 'should' slowly rise into the upper 20s by evening. We will continue to see frizzle (freezing drizzle) and light snow showers throughout the day. Little accumulation is expected, though travel is not recommended as area roadways are, and will become very slick. Steadier snows overspread the region by dark and will continue throughout the night, tapering to snow showers and flurries by Wednesday morning. Accumulations of 2-4" are expected. Temperatures will remain around 30 and winds will increase to 15-25 mph. Conditions get better during the day Wednesday as skies beging to clear. Expect a high temperature around 30F.
We are keeping our eyes on another potential 'event' for Friday into Saturday. Alot will depend on the retrogression of the NAO blocking signature currently over Greenland. This should retrograde Westward into Central and Eastern Canada and will cause storms to undercut the block and dip into the lower 48, causing increased chances for stormy weather. There are no less than 3 chances at significant stormy weather for our area over the next 10 days. More details later tonight.
So, the remainer of the day will feature more frizzle and light snow showers. Snows becoming steady after dark and continuing overnight before tapering to snow showers and flurries Wednesday morning. Accumulations of 2-4" expected for our area. Another threat for wintry weather Friday into Saturday with more storminess on the horizon. Take care!
S.B.
