14 Dec 2022 | 04:59 PM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast over northeastern regions through at least Dec. 17
Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of the northeastern US through at least Dec. 17. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the northeastern US through at least Dec. 17. A weather system moving up the east coast will bring a mix of wintry precipitation, including heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and rainfall to the region, as well as gusty winds. Precipitation will mainly fall as rainfall near the coast, whilst freezing rain could cause dangerous ice accumulations in parts of western Virginia, eastern West Virginia, the Maryland Panhandle, and west-central Pennsylvania. Snowfall accumulations of more than 15 cm (6 inches) are possible in elevated parts of the affected area Dec. 15-16, and accumulations of more than 30 cm (12 inches) are possible across all levels of terrain in upstate New York and into central New England Dec. 16. The heavy snow may be accompanied by strong winds and will likely lead to hazardous driving conditions due to icy roads and reduced visibility.
Government Advisories
As of Dec. 14, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued ice storm warnings across parts of west-central Pennsylvania, far northeastern West Virginia, far western Maryland, and northern Virginia. Winter storm watches have been issued for parts of central, northern, and northeastern Pennsylvania, central and northern New York, far northwestern Massachusetts, and much of Vermont. Winter weather advisories have been issued across much of the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area, especially at higher elevations. Lesser accumulations are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow, and precipitation are less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in some areas. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. If routing shipments by truck through the affected area, plan accordingly for delivery delays. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
