The Midwest and Northeast are bracing for a brief but biting blast of Arctic air, setting the stage for frigid temperatures, snow-laden landscapes, and potential weather-related hazards. However, relief is on the horizon as a warmup is expected to follow this cold snap, bringing milder air and rain but also new challenges.
Arctic Air’s Impact and Lake-Effect Snow
The latest Arctic chill is sweeping through the Midwest and Northeast at a faster pace than the prolonged cold wave that followed Thanksgiving. Cities like Chicago and New York are feeling the brunt of the cold, with daytime highs struggling to break out of the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit. By the weekend, this Arctic air mass will pivot toward Atlantic Canada, allowing milder air to surge in from the Mississippi River to the East Coast.
Before the warmth arrives, significant lake-effect snow will bury parts of western New York, northern Pennsylvania, northeastern Ohio, and Michigan under staggering accumulations of 3 to 6 feet. Meteorologists warn that these snow-packed areas could face flooding risks as the thaw begins, especially where clogged storm drains hinder water runoff.
Warmup Brings Rain and Potential Hazards
As temperatures rise this weekend and into next week, areas such as Chicago and New York will experience highs climbing into the 40s close to seasonal averages. While this reprieve from the cold will be welcome, it could come with a cost. Milder air will trigger snowmelt in regions burdened by lake-effect snow, potentially leading to localized flooding in urban areas.
Additionally, a series of storms is forecast to roll across the country, beginning with rain over the central and lower Great Lakes late Sunday into Monday. This precipitation will accelerate snowmelt, increasing the risk of roof collapses under the added weight of wet snow. In areas with dense snowpack, the combination of warmer air and lingering cold ground could also create widespread fog, potentially impacting visibility for travelers.
Next Week: More Storms, Varied Impacts
Forecasters are monitoring multiple storms expected to develop next week. While rain is the primary concern for much of the East Coast, parts of upstate New York and New England may see snow or an icy mix as colder air lingers in isolated pockets.
Further west, a significant snowstorm could develop over the Rockies and extend into the Plains and Midwest by midweek. Denver, Colorado, is among the cities in the potential snow zone, with early flakes expected this weekend. Travelers across the Central states should remain vigilant, as heavy snow and hazardous conditions could disrupt plans.
Preparing for the Changing Weather
As the Midwest and Northeast transition from Arctic cold to a warmer, wetter pattern, preparation is key. Clearing snow from roofs, ensuring storm drains are open, and staying updated on local weather forecasts can help mitigate risks. While the warming trend offers a temporary reprieve, its associated challenges highlight the ever-changing nature of winter weather in these regions.
