Saturday January 18 2020
The Winter Weather Advisory kicks in this morning as the first wave of snow moves in. Almost all is working out so far with the exception of one thing. There is a lot of cold air to support stickage, but dry air fighting this. Reminder that Part 1 will only last 1 to 3 hours for most. Part 2 is the more widespread ice event this afternoon.
Temperatures
As expected, we have widespread temperatures in the mid 20s, even in southern Maryland.
Morning Radar
This event will verify in most areas with the coating or more of snow. But some in the south get more and some in the middle get less.
- Snow spread farther out to the south, but the line thinned out crossing Frederick. This initial batch may end up heavier in Southern Maryland and lower Delmarva between Easton, Salisbury, and Ocean City.
- But for parts of central Maryland between Frederick, Germantown, and Columbia this Part 1 may look like bust.
At 7:30 AM- The line filled back in just as it reached Baltimore
8 AM
8:15 AM Update:
There was a lot of ‘Virga’ in the initial band. Despite how heavy it looked on radar, it has been fighting the dry cold air. When it broke, it quickly went from nothing to moderate snow in minutes (under that band).
*You may think it’s a bust, but hang on for the ice on the way*
What that tells me is that the cold will try to hold longer. This may result in more icing during the day for more areas.
Winter Weather Advisory lasts ALL DAY
Things are progressing sooner. The ‘Lull” is already trying to fill in across the mountains and MD/PA line. Spotty precip may continue off and on across northern areas.
Metro Washington to Baltimore I’m watching for the sleet/mix showers to return possibly by noon.
At these temps, whatever falls will stick.
Radar Simulation —> slider
Part 1: 7 AM to 2 PM
- The model (not perfect) does not show the thinning or splitting of the line.
- Southern edge will bring enough snow and sleet to southern Maryland and the beaches for impact.
- Northern counties get less of a lull, so snow and sleet fill in quickly keeping the precipitation and icing going especially north of Baltimore.
Radar Simulation —> slider
Part 2: 3 PM to 8 PM
The sleet and freezing rain will expand quickly during the afternoon. This is the time extensive icing is expected and travel problems in the Advisory areas west and north of Baltimore.
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My Call For Snowfall (and ice)
Notes:
- The timing is critical! Earlier arrival means more impact for all.
- Plan for the start between 7 AM and 10 AM
- Snow Burst or ‘Thumping’: Arrival of snow can come with a push of moderate intensity.
- The warmer Chesapeake Bay will play a role in stickage, but the initial push should coat the roads and impact travel during the morning.
- The transition from snow to sleet and freezing rain in metro areas will be between 11 AM and 2 PM. Then rain to follow before evening.
- More Snow North! The colder air will last longer (blue shading). This region will also stay frozen with ice into Saturday evening.
- Western Maryland/Wisp: They will get ice Saturday afternoon, then more snow returns Sunday.
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WEATHER WIFE COLLECTION
- Thanks to Shannon (weather wife) for hand picking items ‘she’ wants to wear
- The Yoga Pants have side leg pocket for your phone
- The Hoodie is extra soft and has the important ‘thumb holes’
Winter Outlook Series:
Part 1: More Snow This Winter Supported By Stats
Part 2: Solar Minimum- Low Sunspots May Mean High Snow Totals This Winter
Part 3: Tropical Systems In East Asia and Atlantic Basin Hint At Winter Storm Tracks
Snowy Winters Following A Hot and Dry September
NOAA Winter Outlook Leaves Room For More Snow With Mild ‘Seasonal Average’ Temperatures
Baltimore Weather At BWI May Not Be As Hot As Reported
Construction at the airport close to the weather station may be added artificial heat. Click here or the image for the details.
Atmospheric Memory Shaped The US East Coast
Atmospheric Memory Of Hurricanes Over Thousands Of Years Shaped The Coast
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