A warning has been issued by the Weather Channel and the National Weather Service regarding the arrival of winter storm Blair, expected to hit over the weekend and continue into Monday. This storm will bring significant snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, affecting around 250 million people across 40 states, setting a challenging tone for the new year.
Winter storm Blair is linked to an Arctic Outbreak caused by the polar vortex. Typically, the polar vortex isolates the Arctic region, keeping extreme cold contained. However, this weekend, high pressure systems are pushing the jet stream southward, allowing cold Arctic air to move deep into the continental U.S. Concurrently, a blocking high pressure system over Greenland is also contributing to the southward movement of the jet stream.
Starting Saturday, snow is anticipated in the northern and central Rockies and the Plains, extending potentially to the mid-Mississippi Valley. Cities including Kansas City, St. Louis, and Wichita are warned of hazardous driving conditions, with lake effect snow adding to the snowfall in regions adjacent to the Great Lakes. By Sunday, the storm’s impact will reach the Appalachian Mountains and extend into Oklahoma, affecting cities like Cincinnati, Indianapolis, and Louisville. Snow accumulation could reach between six to twelve inches in the impacted areas.
While snowfall is expected to decrease early in the week, the Arctic air may linger, with some areas experiencing subzero temperatures by mid-January. States like Texas and Oklahoma could see lows in the 20s and 30s, while Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Appalachia are predicted to experience similar conditions. The forecast indicates lows of 23°F in Dallas, 21°F in Atlanta, and even 46°F in Miami, showcasing the extensive reach of this cold front.
Accuweather describes that the cold air will arrive in waves, leading to prolonged periods of below-average temperatures nationwide. The Midwest and mid-Atlantic states may experience temperatures 12°F to 25°F below historical averages for the next few weeks, with all five Gulf Coast states possibly facing snow and ice. A wide area stretching from western Nebraska to West Virginia could see significant snow accumulation, providing enough snow for shoveling and plowing.
Despite these extreme winter conditions, the broader context of climate change remains unchanged. January 2025 serves as a stark reminder of the severe weather patterns that can occur even within the larger framework of climate variability. However, preparing for such an extraordinary weather event can foster community resilience and prompt safety awareness among residents.
Overall, winter storm Blair exemplifies the power of nature while also highlighting the importance of staying informed and prepared for severe weather. The situation presents an opportunity for communities to come together, support one another, and face the challenges posed by this winter weather collectively.