AccuWeather meteorologists predict that the prolonged wintry weather affecting the central and eastern United States will finally subside this week. However, before that happens, millions in the Eastern region will have to deal with significant snowfall from a major winter storm. This storm is expected to bring disruptive wintry conditions to the nation’s midsection through Wednesday, potentially becoming the largest snowstorm of the season for parts of the Central states and the mid-Atlantic, with snowfall exceeding a foot in some areas.
AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter explained, “The upcoming snowstorm will be fueled by a fresh burst of Arctic air and will likely be the most intense of the February storms, following a series of weather events throughout the month.” Following recent snow, ice, rain, and thunderstorms, the East, particularly the mid-Atlantic region, is bracing for significant impacts from Wednesday into Thursday.
With colder temperatures and a more southerly storm track, snowfall is expected to extend further south compared to previous storms, reaching areas like the Carolinas. Richmond, Norfolk, and Raleigh in Virginia and North Carolina could see substantial snow accumulation, potentially the most significant of the winter season. The heaviest snow is projected to fall south of Washington, D.C., particularly in southeastern Virginia, surpassing previous seasonal snowfall records.
AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Courtney Travis cautioned that the timing of the snowfall on Wednesday afternoon could create challenging travel conditions, especially during the evening commute in major cities like Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. While the forecast snow map allows for adjustments in the storm’s path, a dry air wedge to the north and west may limit snowfall in areas from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C. Snowfall predictions along the I-95 corridor range from 1 to 4 inches, with higher amounts expected south and east of major cities.
Meteorologist Kerry Schwindenhammer highlighted the storm’s track as a crucial factor in determining snowfall accumulations, especially in the Northeast. A more coastal route on Thursday could lead to increased snowfall in cities like Boston and Providence, while a southern trajectory might spare cities like New York City and Philadelphia from heavy snow. Residents in these areas are advised to stay updated on the storm’s progress for potential travel disruptions.
The upcoming winter storm is forecasted to bring significant impacts from the Delmarva Peninsula to southern Virginia and the northern part of North Carolina. Not only will there be snow, but there is also the potential for a troublesome amount of ice, particularly near and south of the storm track.
“Besides the snow, freezing rain is anticipated as another concern associated with this storm,” stated Travis. “Areas in southern Virginia and North Carolina, such as Raleigh and Charlotte, are likely to witness icing conditions developing late on Wednesday and persisting through Wednesday night.”
An accumulation of at least 0.25 inches of ice in these regions could result in prolonged power outages and extremely hazardous travel conditions, both on the roads and in the air. Integrated Deicing Services was captured de-icing a Southwest Airlines aircraft prior to departure at Salt Lake City International Airport on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
As residents prepare to venture out once more to clear snow and deal with icy conditions from yet another storm, they may find solace in the fact that this stormy weather pattern is expected to diminish later in the week.
“Following this storm, it appears that many in the Eastern United States will finally receive some relief from the relentless barrage of winter storms,” Travis added. “Nevertheless, cold air is predicted to linger behind this system across the Ohio Valley and Northeast, lasting at least through the upcoming weekend.”
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