Major Winter Storm Forecasted for Mid-Atlantic and Eastern U.S.
A significant winter storm will affect the mid-Atlantic and eastern United States from Wednesday to Thursday, bringing heavy snowfall and ice. Major cities like Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia, may experience their largest snowfall of the season, while southern Virginia and North Carolina will face ice-related hazards. After this storm, a reprieve from the ongoing winter pattern is anticipated, though cold weather will persist.
A final storm in February’s relentless series is set to deliver substantial snowfall and significant ice across the Atlantic Seaboard from Wednesday to Thursday. AccuWeather meteorologists, including Jon Porter, predict that this upcoming winter storm will see heavy snow extending from the Midwest to the eastern United States. Millions will face snow cleanup as this two-week wintry weather pattern reaches its conclusion, potentially marking one of the season’s most impactful storms for various regions, particularly the mid-Atlantic.
This winter storm, described by AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter, is characterized by an influx of Arctic air and the phenomenon where the last storm in a series typically exerts the greatest force. The mid-Atlantic, including major population centers like Richmond, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., is anticipating its largest snowfall of the winter, with amounts ranging from 6-12 inches possible, and some localities may see up to 25 inches according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Grady Gilman.
Following prior earlier storms that recently produced snow, ice, and thunderstorms, the east coast, notably the mid-Atlantic region, will face considerable weather impacts from Wednesday afternoon. The arrival of snow during this busy commuting time could lead to rapidly deteriorating travel conditions in cities such as Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, warns Senior Meteorologist Courtney Travis.
Furthermore, snowfall and accumulation estimates will likely be affected by shifts in the storm’s path. AccuWeather meteorologists indicate the possibility of higher snow totals reaching as far north as Philadelphia and Boston if the storm shifts track. Conversely, should the storm travel more compactly and southward, areas from Philadelphia to New York City might experience very little snowfall, with heavier amounts potentially concentrated in southern Virginia and northern North Carolina.
In addition to snow, significant ice is expected to impact the Carolinas, with freezing rain presenting hazards particularly in southern Virginia and North Carolina. AccuWeather’s Travis cautions that an accumulation of at least 0.25 inches of ice may cause extensive power outages and extremely hazardous travel conditions. As residents prepare to tackle the aftermath of this storm, there is a sense of relief anticipated, as this storm may signal an end to the recent pattern of severe winter weather.
After the storm passes, many in the eastern United States may enjoy a respite from the ongoing winter onslaught, although cold air will linger in the Northeast and Ohio Valley, potentially extending through the following weekend. AccuWeather offers premium services for advanced weather alerts, dedicated to enhancing community safety against these severe weather patterns.
To summarize, a major winter storm is poised to impact the eastern United States, with significant snowfall and ice forecasted from Wednesday to Thursday. Major cities such as Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia, may experience their largest snowfall of the season, while the Carolinas are warned of potential ice hazards. Following this storm, a break from the continued winter storms is expected, albeit with lingering cold temperatures.
Original Source: www.accuweather.com
