Eye Of The Blizzard: Peak Of Storm And When It Ends

January 23: The Blizzard of 2016 has not produced blizzard conditions yet in Baltimore, but I’m sure many will argue that. The range of snow between 1 and 2 and a half feet fits the snow forecast so far, and there is plenty more on the way through this evening. Baltimore’s BWI reported over 19 inches as of 2 PM.  In short, we have a seasons worth of snow in a 24 to 36 hour event.  But as the storm has stalled this afternoon, I wanted to show some images that relate to why I had suggested we might see an eye on satellite images. I was reminded with this wind flow map shared by Ron Fortier.

This wind flow shows the intense wrap up o the coastal Low. Winds have been gusting to 70 mph on the coast, and sadly there has been tremendous beach erosion. Even New Jersey has had reminders of Sandy with the flow of onshore water.

A Hurricane Wind Warning is in effect for central New Jersey through Maryland for the potential of gusts to 75 mph.

Below is a look at the surface map, and simulated radar showing the back edge of the snow with some more heavy bands swinging back through. More accumulation expected.

Here is a look at the Mesoscale Analysis 

A 990mb Low is very strong, but not the strongest we have seen in winter events. Just an impressive set up in the perfect location for our region to get hammered.

 Satellite Image:

Not exactly an eye, but you can see the thin center of the storm that is trying to clear out.

When will it end?

Simulated Radar- Plan for this to wind down between 8PM and Midnight