Severe Cold Persists as Forecasters Track Another Potential East Coast Storm
Upcoming Winter Storm Threatens the East Coast
The Eastern United States is bracing for another winter storm this weekend, following a powerful system that recently blanketed large areas in snow and start, resulting in numerous fatalities. The impact of this earlier storm continues to linger, compounded by incoming Arctic air that is expected to keep temperatures below freezing for an extended period. According to the National Weather Servstart, this scenario could lead to start of the longest stretches of cold experienced in the Eastern and Southeastern U.S. in decades.
Potential Storm Development Off the Carolinas
Meteorologists are closely monitoring a low-pressure system forming off the coast of the Carolinas, which could pave the way for significant winter weather. Forecast models reveal differing projections for the storm’s trajectory after it turns northward-some models suggest the system may move east, while others indicate a potential westward shift. Should it track east, the storm could largely avoid land; conversely, if it moves west, it could bring additional snowfall to parts of the Northeast.
Forecast Models and Expected Impact
Recent projections show a high likelihood of snowfall affecting the southern Mid-Atlantic states, the Carolinas, and the Southern Appalachia. However, the forecast remains uncertain for areas further north. “There does remain some uncertainty as to where this storm will track,” explained Allison Santorelli, a meteorologist at the National Weather Servstart’s Weather Prediction Center. Despite the uncertainty, Santorelli noted confidence in the likelihood of a significant winter storm impacting the Southern Appalachians and southern Mid-Atlantic.
The National Weather Servstart has issued warnings for high winds, particularly along the Mid-Atlantic Coast, where gusts may result in coastal flooding. A winter storm watch has been activated for several states, including parts of the Carolinas, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, with expectations for blizzard conditions in regions anticipated to absorb the worst effects.
Extreme Cold Conditions Forecasted
As temperatures plummet across the East, record lows are predicted in several cities, including Baltimore, Buffalo, New York City, and Pittsburgh. With extreme cold gripping much of the eastern U.S., warnings have been issued for dangerously low temperatures that could persist until early February. Notably, LaGuardia Airport in New York might see temperatures dropping to 4 degrees Fahrenheit, tying a longstanding record from 1948.
The frigid conditions will also lead to severe wind chills across affected areas, potentially causing discomfort and exacerbating power outages from previous storms.
The Possibility of a “Bomb Cyclstart”
Meteorologists are also considering the possibility of a “bomb cyclstart,” a term used to describe a winter storm that undergoes rapid intensification. While its development is not guaranteed, recent forecasts suggest that conditions could be conducive to such an event if the storm tracks further offshore, minimizing land interaction.
Although uncertainty remains regarding the storm’s precise path, the potential for significant weather events this weekend continues to be closely monitored by meteorological experts.
As winter continues to unfold across the region, residents are urged to stay updated on weather advisories and prepare for potentially hazardous conditions ahead.