Prospects for a winter storm impacting our region this weekend are on the rise and we will likely see some type of winter weather advisory or watch posted by later this evening.
First for today, expect mostly cloudy and breezy conditions. A few scattered showers will develop this afternoon as highs reach the lower 50s.
Back to the upcoming winter storm potential: A strong area of low pressure will pass to our south and east bringing with it a mix of rain, freezing rain, and sleet by Friday afternoon and evening. At this time, it appears we will see more sleet as opposed to freezing rain since temperatures at the surface will start out on the warmer side of the spectrum. However, sleet accumulations will make for slick travel by Friday evening.
As colder air filters in behind this storm system, another piece of energy will rotate towards us Saturday afternoon and evening producing possibly heavy bands of snow. At this time, at least four inches of accumulation appears likely, with higher total amounts up to 8-10″ quite possible by Sunday morning. Strong winds will also create dangerous travel conditions for much of Saturday afternoon and evening.
We’ll continue to refine the details regarding snowfall amounts in the next 12 hours as more model agreement takes place. It certainly looks like Friday night through at least Sunday morning will offer difficult travel. Stay here for further updates.