5 things you need to know as the snowstorm gets closer
WASHINGTON - The chatter is unavoidable! You have no doubt already heard that there is potential for the Mid-Atlantic to see a major snow storm by the end of this week. So what are we looking at? FOX 5's Gary McGrady has the five things you need to know about the potential snowstorm!
1) Amazing Model Agreement
A new day - and the forecast models continue to point towards a significant and disruptive storm. We expect the National Weather Service to issue a Winter Storm Watch for parts, if not all, of the region on Wednesday. It really is remarkable to see the consistency from model to model. There continues to be minor differences, but collectively, all of the major charts show a big snow for D.C. metro and surrounding neighborhoods
2) Timing the Arrival
Arrival time for the snow on Friday looks to be early to late afternoon. It's still too soon to narrow the exact timing down. Cold air will be in place, so initially, we expect all snow. Some mixing will most likely occur along and east of the I-95 corridor.
3) Rain/Snow Line Will Be Critical
Rain/Snow line…always a problem around here! It can be the difference between huge amounts…and not so much. Right now we feel like this line of transition will be east of I-95.
4) Shovels At The Ready
No doubt about it -- we will be digging out of this for a few days! This won't be a light, fluffy snow either! Expect it to be fairly wet and heavy. If possible, keep up with the shoveling -- every 3-4 hours will make it easier in the long run.
5) Expect Major Travel Delays
Expect major delays and cancellations at area airports. Also, road travel will be dangerous Friday night through Saturday -- and even into Sunday. This is a storm that has the potential to bring weekend travel to a halt. Regardless, if you have travel plans, and you are able to reschedule to an earlier date (Thursday), it is recommended that you do so. Again, better safe than sorry!
Count on the Fox 5 Weather Team to bring you the latest information as it happens. We will keep you updated!
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