(WSET) — Yes, I do expect a “big time” snowstorm. Some of those computer model forecasts don’t actually look crazy to me this time.
The last time we witnessed one-foot snow totals in Central, SW and Southside Virginia area was December 8-9, 2018. This upcoming Winter Storm will be the highest snow totals since then. One-foot snow totals are within reach.
In my Monday update, I posted that double-digit snow totals are attainable. After reviewing everything, no changes.
TRACKING THE SWATH:
I’m thinking a swath of 10” to 15” totals will occur 100 to 200 miles on the north side of the Low. So, the next question is: where does the center of the Low track? That determines who gets the 10” to 15” amounts. South of the 15” snow swath, you’re getting into less snow and more freezing rain. North of the 10” to 15” swath, you’ll see lower snow totals.
ABC13 has issued a Weather Alert Day for Saturday and Sunday due to the expected Winter Storm.
ABC13 has issued a Weather Alert Day for Saturday and Sunday due to the expected Winter Storm. (WSET)
PRECIP BEGINS AS SNOW on Saturday night, and roads worsen quickly.
SEE ALSO: Campbell County K9 team rescues missing woman in freezing conditions
WINTER STORM CONDITIONS:
A Winter Storm Warning is issued when snow totals exceed 4”. I expect all locations of the ABC13 area to exceed 4” totals.
HEAVY SNOW SUNDAY:
As you awaken to a “winter wonderland” of snow cover on Sunday morning. The precip would end Sunday night.
SUNDAY WILL BE THE WORST DAY for travelling. We’ll have snow cover + additional falling snow.
SNOW COULD CHANGE TO FREEZING RAIN during the last half of the precipitation on Sunday. This would be most likely for Southside and Carolinas, but could reach Central Virginia.
WATCHING THE PATH OF THE LOW:
If Low stays south= more snow. Path goes north= snow (lower snow totals) + more ice
PLOWABLE SNOW as totals should easily exceed 4” for everyone.
SNOW RANGE:
Right now, I’m thinking 5” to 15” for much of Virginia. As mentioned above, the 10” to 15” totals will be 100 to 200 miles north of the Low, and as of now that’s the ABC13 area.
WIDESPREAD CANCELLATIONS:
Airports, churches, and outdoor events will be cancelled on Sunday.
AIRPORTS CLOSED across the Carolinas and Virginia on Sunday. I don’t know when airports would reopen, as you’re at the mercy of that airport’s snow removal procedures. You should be good to fly out Saturday morning.
SCHOOLS CLOSED for many next week. If you receive 10” of snow, you’re probably cancelled all of next week.
CAROLINAS:
A “crippling” ice storm for the Carolinas can occur. Will be watching the path of the Low for freezing rain, particularly for the Southside.
Hopefully, this info helps you prepare!
In summary, I’m highly confident in Winter Storm conditions (snow totals over 4”) and moderately confident of double-digit snow totals.
More updates to come.
–George Flickinger
