A rapidly intensifying storm system is anticipated to form off the Southeast coast this weekend, coinciding with a severe cold outbreak that has already brought significant snowfall to the region. There is a strong likelihood of heavy snow and powerful winds impacting the Carolinas and southern Virginia, just days after a historic winter storm affected vast areas of the East Coast.
Further north along the Interstate-95 corridor, however, predictions are less definitive. Minor shifts in the storm’s trajectory could lead to dramatically different outcomes, potentially resulting in a major blizzard or merely a breezy day with light snow in major cities throughout the Northeast.
Weather models are increasingly predicting the development of a low-pressure system near the Carolinas by early Saturday, which is expected to rapidly strengthen into a bomb cyclone. The storm’s proximity to the coast as it progresses north will dictate the extent of snowfall across the mid-Atlantic and Northeast.
In the Southeast, particularly across the Carolinas and southern Virginia, confidence in the forecast is high. Accumulating snow and strong winds are projected to begin Saturday, with models indicating that even slight shifts in the storm’s path could still bring significant snowfall. While current estimates are being finalized, areas closer to the coast, such as Raleigh, North Carolina, and Roanoke, Virginia, may see snowfall totals between 6 to 12 inches. Lighter accumulations are expected further inland, with some models suggesting that snowfall could reach as far west as Atlanta, Knoxville, and Roanoke.
The strong winds accompanying the storm could exacerbate conditions, resulting in blowing snow and possible scattered power outages if heavier snow bands develop. Snow is forecast to persist into Sunday as the storm strengthens offshore.
In the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, predictions become more uncertain as the storm’s final track will significantly influence what kind of weather to expect. As of Thursday morning, regions closer to the coast and extending into New England seem to have a greater chance of experiencing accumulating snow. However, a mere 100 to 200-mile shift in the storm’s path could alter these predictions profoundly, particularly for cities along the I-95 corridor.
If the storm hugs the coast, it could lead to a significant snow event with damaging winds and dangerous cold temperatures. Conversely, a shift further offshore could lead to only light snow or breezy conditions for cities like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City. Boston, situated further east, has a higher likelihood of receiving snow based on the storm’s predicted track.
Coastal impacts, including beach erosion, high surf, and potential flooding, are also major concerns as the storm strengthens offshore. According to NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center, there could be wind gusts approaching hurricane force coinciding with astronomical high tides, resulting in moderate to substantial coastal flooding.
Even areas that experience little to no snowfall may face serious coastal hazards along the East Coast due to the storm’s rapid intensification. Regardless of its exact track, dangerous marine conditions are expected.
As communities continue to recover from last weekend’s severe winter storm, with many still without power, any additional heavy snow and strong winds could add strain. Residents from the Carolinas to the Northeast are advised to stay informed about the latest forecasts and prepare accordingly for potential impacts.