Thursday, January 8, 2009

Up and Down Temps...Snow Next Week???

Another blast of chill is on the way, as temperatures tumble well down into the 20s overnight. A sunny, but seasonably chilly day is on tap to finish the work week. Then our next cold front will approach from the west on Saturday. Ahead of the front, temperatures will jump to 50 or a little higher, with afternoon showers likely. Then afternoon temperatures in the 40s will be the rule Sunday and Monday.
Yet another front (and this time an Arctic front) will approach the Mid-Atlantic on Tuesday. A few scattered rain and snow showers will likely break out, with a major cold blast following for the mid-week period.

Snow later next week???

Some of our computer model data is showing moisture gathering north of the Arctic boundary later next week, which could mean some precipitation for us. If there is, it would be snow, as the air will be more than cold enough. However, the models are not in agreement on how deep the upper level trough will be over us and its exact strength and placement will be key to whatever develops (if anything at all). Below is the European computer model projection for next Thursday morning (1/15). You can see a weak area of low pressure, and it puts a slug of moisture over our region. It looks like either way, it will be mighty cold for a while. Remember in the winter outlook, I focused on the period from January 15-25 for a cold spell and potential winter weather. I still believe this will be a time to watch closely. Stay tuned...

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