LONG TERM /MONDAY NIGHT THROUGH FRIDAY/...
Unsettled weather will continue into the first week of December
as cold air in the middle of the country sets up a strong
baroclinic zone over the eastern US. High pressure in the Plains
should keep cold air in place on the northern side of the
precipitation shield from a wave of low pressure progged to move
out of the Gulf. This system should move northeast around the
base of the aforementioned high pressure system, bringing
increasing moisture to the Mid-Atlantic Tuesday into Wednesday.
The system at this time looks to be somewhat progressive with
the lack of a strong area of high pressure to slow the advance
of the system. Despite the expected fast forward movement, a
deepening coastal low could still provide enough forcing
juxtaposed with favorable upper jet dynamics to produce
significant snowfall across the region. Snow looks to arrive
later Monday night and lift across the region during the day on
Monday. The eventual track and intensity of the low will have
big implications on observed snowfall totals and the northward
extent of any mix/rain scenarios.
The latest WPC probabilities of 0.25" or greater liquid
equivalent snow/sleet paint medium probabilities (40-70%)
across most of the region, with slightly lower amounts expected
in northwest PA. The latest Winter Storm Outlook highlights a
30-50% chance of Warning criteria snowfall (5"+) in northeast
PA. GEFS and ECENS probabilities of 6"+ continue to outline
probabilities <30% with a higher likelihood in northeast PA up
through coastal New England. If confidence increases in higher
amounts, Watches may be needed in the next 24-48 hours. At this
time, though, a plowable snowfall seems like a reasonable bet
for most of the region. Continue to monitor the forecast in the
days ahead, especially if you have plans to travel.