UPDATE: A significant winter storm is poised to impact the East Coast this weekend, with the National Weather Service predicting snow or sleet accumulation exceeding 0.25 inches of liquid precipitation from South Carolina to Maine between February 3 and February 5, 2024. Coastal areas face the highest likelihood of an “impactful” weather event, according to the Weather Prediction Center.
Forecasters indicate that computer models are in agreement about the storm’s development. Michael Schichtel, chief meteorologist at the Weather Prediction Center, stated, “Despite the notable agreement on the intensifying system, subtle differences in the track off the coast lead to a lot more uncertainty regarding potential impacts.” Currently, the most significant potential impacts are expected in the coastal regions and possibly extending inland across the Carolinas and southern New England.
Residents are urged to prepare for possible high winds, large waves, and coastal flooding as the storm approaches. Schichtel also highlighted that the eastern half of the United States will experience temperatures well below normal for the next 10 days, resulting in many schools remaining closed.
The meteorologist warned, “The ongoing settling of cold surface high pressure and additional surges in the wake of the historic winter storm will maintain dangerously cold temperatures for the central and eastern U.S. well into next week.” This prolonged cold snap may intensify in areas with extensive snow or ice coverage, leading to enhanced radiational cooling.
In stark contrast, the western U.S. is set to continue experiencing well above-average temperatures through the first week of February.
Authorities are closely monitoring this developing situation, and residents are advised to stay updated on local forecasts as the storm approaches. With the potential for significant impacts, now is the time to prepare for a potentially challenging weekend ahead.
