Snowstorm bringing record-breaking snowfall to Northeast after two-year drought

• First big storm in the Northeast in a couple of years.

• Winter storm warnings and ice accumulations in Pennsylvania and New England.

• 5 to 12 inches of snow expected in some locations.

People fight their way through the snowstorm in Kristiansand, Norway, Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024. Temperatures below minus 40 degrees Celsius (minus 40 Fahrenheit) continued to be recorded in the Nordic

AP

Winter Storm Brings Long-Awaited Snowfall to Northeast

As anticipation builds, the Northeast is preparing for its first significant winter storm in years. Cities such as Washington, D.C., Baltimore, New York, and even Harrisburg and State College in Pennsylvania, have been eagerly awaiting a fresh blanket of snow. It has been a lengthy wait, with some areas experiencing a snow drought for as long as two years.

Winter storm warnings are in effect for parts of the southern region, particularly in West Virginia, where ice accumulations are expected. These warnings extend into Pennsylvania and up through New England, where snowfall of 5 to 12 inches is anticipated. The storm system is currently producing showers and storms in Florida, with a possibility of damaging winds and even a brief tornado.

The northern portion of the storm system is bringing cold air and icy conditions to the Appalachian Mountains, as well as the much-anticipated snowfall to areas such as Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York. The heaviest snowfall is expected in central Pennsylvania, upstate New York, and the interior of New England. Snow totals in these regions could reach 6 to 12 inches.

The storm is projected to continue moving north throughout the evening, with New York City experiencing the peak of the snow later on tonight. The rain-snow line is expected to play a role in determining snow totals, as areas to the north and west of New York City are predicted to receive the majority of the snowfall. Boston will see its peak snowfall overnight, and there is even a chance for an additional round of snow tomorrow morning as a result of the incoming cold air.

The significance of this storm cannot be overstated, as it breaks records for the longest snow-free periods in many major cities. Philadelphia has not seen an inch of snow in a staggering 706 days, while Central Park in New York City has experienced 691 days without measurable snowfall. Washington, D.C. has gone 664 days without an inch of snow. Citizens and authorities are bracing themselves for potential power outages, with heavy wet snow and gusts up to 40 mph expected in some areas.

The preparations are in full swing as the Northeast readies itself for the long-awaited storm. Road crews are on standby, residents are stocking up on supplies, and everyone's eyes are on the skies. The winter storm is about to make its grand entrance, and the Northeast is ready to embrace the beauty and challenges that come with it.