Cold Tuesday, Rain and Mild Friday, Chance of a White Christmas?

This December has experienced significantly cold temperatures, with readings ranging from 8 to 10 degrees below the state average during the first half of the month. Such a substantial deviation is remarkable, considering that typical monthly temperature variations are usually only one to two degrees from the average.

*This map does not account for the cold snap the last 4 days.

A significant warm-up is anticipated for Friday morning as a storm system moves over the Great Lakes, bringing mild temperatures, with highs in the 50s, and increased humidity. This will be accompanied by a period of heavy rain and wind gusts. Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 50 mph, with approximately one inch of rain forecasted. By midday Friday, the existing snow cover is likely to have completely melted.

Regarding temperatures for the remainder of the month, we anticipate a return to more typical December levels. Our temperatures will be influenced by the storm track, while much of the central part of the county experiences a December thaw.

The temperatures during Christmas week are expected to range from average to below average.

Next week, several disturbances are expected to move down from Canada around the warm ridge of high pressure over the Central US. Some forecast models indicate the possibility of accumulating snow on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Let's examine the European Ensembles' probability of snow accumulation within the 48-hour window surrounding Christmas Day. Initially, the probability of snow was at zero percent before Christmas Eve, but it significantly increases, suggesting a 30-50% chance of receiving 1 inch or more of snow between December 24th and 26th. We will continue to update you on this potential as it is still 8-10 days away. -JDJ