Have upgraded storm title in accordance with latest model trends.
Satellite imagery indicates the storm system in question is currently still mainly offshore of the west coast of North America. The enhanced infrared values over land, however, show that this system is at least partially sampled into the upper air network. This means that weather balloons can collect data from the storm that then enhances model forecast verification chances. This is a point that I will restate in the next several minutes that you read this.
Recent observations of the latest model forecasts show that this system will be putting down some significant snowfall. The two images above show the 84 hour accumulated snowfall forecast for the GFS on top and NAM on bottom. As you can see, both models remain slightly different in placement of snowfall, and there are differences in snowfall amounts. The NAM model has more snowfall than the GFS, which is typical, since it has a wetter-than-normal bias. The GFS model and NAM model both indicate that there will be a heavy snowfall event in North Dakota, possibly into Minnesota. From there, we diverge into two different tracks. One track has heavy snow in Chicago and Milwaukee (essentially the NAM and European models), while the other track has the heaviest snow in Iowa and central Illinois (American model).
Looking at animations of recent model runs, I have seen a clear northward trend in model forecasts, more towards the first track I mentioned in the above paragraph. Because the system is just now getting onshore and into the weather balloon network, changes in the models were bound to occur. However, this last-minute shift north is interesting in more than how the system is now just getting onshore. I could see how the system maintains this north track. It will be coming into the US from the Pacific Jet Stream, which is the jet stream in the North US. As a result, it is more likely than not to be bound to the northern jet stream (essentially the northern track) than completely separating and shifting south, in my opinion. I feel like the recent models are also counting this factor in, but the big question is where the snow will fall. In that aspect, I can't say I'm too sure just yet. I will need to see another 12-24 hours of snowfall forecasts before I'm confident enough to issue an accumulation map. However, I am confident enough to say that I can make a preliminary map, which is shown above.
I may need to extend that 'Heaviest Snow' area further south and east with time, but I'm just not confident enough yet to bring it in that direction.
Andrew
Looking at animations of recent model runs, I have seen a clear northward trend in model forecasts, more towards the first track I mentioned in the above paragraph. Because the system is just now getting onshore and into the weather balloon network, changes in the models were bound to occur. However, this last-minute shift north is interesting in more than how the system is now just getting onshore. I could see how the system maintains this north track. It will be coming into the US from the Pacific Jet Stream, which is the jet stream in the North US. As a result, it is more likely than not to be bound to the northern jet stream (essentially the northern track) than completely separating and shifting south, in my opinion. I feel like the recent models are also counting this factor in, but the big question is where the snow will fall. In that aspect, I can't say I'm too sure just yet. I will need to see another 12-24 hours of snowfall forecasts before I'm confident enough to issue an accumulation map. However, I am confident enough to say that I can make a preliminary map, which is shown above.
Andrew
9 comments:
My local forecast here in central Alabama is calling for t'storms tuesday (5th). Any chance for severe weather with this system for the south in general?
I see another potential winter storm for March 8-9th here in Colorado, with is popping up over and over again in the forecast models, and from the sound of it, it has the potential to be a big March storm, complete with heavy snow and strong winds, would you be able to elaborate on that potential if possible, like what your confidence is on such a storm falling on or around that date?
Very nice update, Andrew. This is Chicago's best chance of finally getting a foot of snow out of a single storm, and people are gearing up already. Chicago's to see NE winds which would produce lake-enhancement of several inches. Some models have over a foot here by Wednesday afternoon. Keep us updated!
breaking news disregard the 00z gfs something is wrong with the hardware
Hey Andrew, Justin here. I live by lakeshore in Ohio. Parma to be exact. What do you think are chances are of getting a good amount of snow from storm? Thanks Andrew.
Central AL anonymous: Not at this time.
Colorado Anonymous: After this incoming winter storm, I will take a look at that system.
Ray: Thanks much for the input!
Justin: Your area could get several inches of snow.
looks like locally 12-15 up here in northeastern iowa, based off of latest gfs runs, this would make a great last bang for winter
Do you think the carolinas will see any snow from the system of march 6and 7th
not anything about the storm doesnt the ssw look a little more intense than jan-feb. what are the real results do this prolong winter are just inhance the tornado season.imply please
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