Massive Storm Finally Visible On Radar And It's Looking Fierce
by Kate Bilo
Our major winter storm is finally visible on radar and it's looking fierce across the southeast. Lots of rain and lots of convective energy with this, and all that is headed our way!
The storm will arrive after nightfall on Friday, meaning it's a well-timed storm for those that work Monday-Friday or have kids in school. We'll get both commutes out of the way and get the buses parked for the night before the storm arrives. And if you can stay indoors Saturday and not venture out in the snow, I would highly recommend it.
We are still expecting 12-16 inches of snow in the Greater Philadelphia area, with slightly lower amounts to the north and west because of a sharp northern cutoff to the precipitation. Lower amounts also to the southeast, as rain and sleet could mix in along the coast especially and drive down those totals.
Another factor of the storm is the blizzard potential. Remember that a blizzard is defined by winds and visibility. You need three hours of sustained winds over 35 mph coupled with visibility below .25 miles. Regardless of how much snow falls, the blowing and drifting will cause treacherous travel across the region. Flights will be grounded, expect public transit to shut down during the storm, and you shouldn't be on the roads if you don't have to be.
Coastal impacts will be severe as well. Major beach erosion and coastal flooding anticipated with an extended battering of the coastline by winds gusting at times to 60 mph.
We will continue to monitor any potential changes to the storm. Things to watch include where convective banding sets up, the potential for thundersnow, how far inland the mixing line travels, and whether the models continue to hint at a slightly farther north solution for the storm track. Stay with us for all the latest.
