Direct Weather looks again at the East Coast snowstorm forecast. A major winter storm will bring significant snowfall to the Northeast on Thanksgiving night, followed by an intense Arctic outbreak triggering heavy lake-effect snow that could dump 2-6 feet across the Great Lakes region through early December.
Here are the brief highlights of the forecast, but check out the full video for more details:
The upcoming winter weather pattern is shaping to be extremely active, with multiple opportunities for snowfall over the next 15 days.
Thanksgiving Snowstorm
A significant snowstorm is expected to hit the Northeast from Thanksgiving night into Friday. The European model has consistently been accurate in predicting this system, while the GFS model has finally aligned with its forecast. Heavy snowfall is anticipated for most of New York State (except NYC), Vermont, New Hampshire, and parts of Massachusetts, particularly in mountainous areas.
Arctic Outbreak and Lake Effect Snow
Following the Thanksgiving storm, a major Arctic outbreak will bring brutally cold temperatures to the Eastern U.S. This cold air mass is expected to trigger a significant lake effect snow event lasting several days. Areas near the Great Lakes, including parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York, could see feet of snowfall accumulation.
Continued Cold and Snow Chances
The cold pattern is expected to persist well into December, with multiple opportunities for snow. Several clipper systems and potential coastal storms are forecasted, which could bring additional snowfall to the Midwest, Ohio Valley, and Northeast. While exact amounts are uncertain this far out, the pattern favors continued chances for snow.
Western U.S. Outlook
Unfortunately for skiers and snowboarders in the Western U.S., this pattern may result in below-average precipitation and snowfall. The persistent warmth in the West is partly responsible for driving the cold air into the Eastern states.
Long-term Pattern
This cold and snowy pattern for the Eastern U.S. may persist throughout winter. Direct Weather notes similarities to the 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 winters, which were notably cold and snowy. This could be excellent news for winter sports enthusiasts in the East, potentially leading to an extended ski season.
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