Active and Potentially Snowy Pattern Ahead
By this time last year, several snowstorms had already blanketed Delmarva with over half a foot of snow. This year Salisbury has only recorded just under an inch of snow. But the pattern looks to become quite active over the next couple of weeks with several chances for snowfall.
Delmarva is entering the climatological peak of winter where most snowfall is usually recorded. January and February are statistically the snowiest months across Delmarva. Salisbury averages 3.2 inches in January and 3.3 inches in February, while the entire winter season as a whole only averages a little over 9 inches. Just in time for the peak of winter will be an active pattern developing over the eastern U.S. This pattern will bring chances for snow from the northwest and from the south.
Gulf of Mexico low pressures typically bring us our biggest snowstorms. Over the next couple of weeks there will be an active southern jet stream that will bring in moisture and sometimes allow systems to track up the coast. An active polar jet stream will also bring of low pressures straight out of Canada, we call these systems “clippers.” These clippers will bring cold air and the chance for snow as well.
Our first potential system arrives this Saturday January 24th and it’s a Gulf low. It is expected to track up the east coast and bring rain and snow to the area. Depending on its track will determine what kind of precipitation we see, but parts of Delmarva could see accumulating snow. The next shot arrives on Monday next week as a clipper system. This will bring colder air across the east and potentially set the stage for some snow once again. The long range models continue to indicate more clippers and possible Gulf lows to impact Delmarva into the first week of February.
Even though the pattern looks active, the cold air needs to be in place in order to get a good snow. That is the question that remains; will there be enough cold air to get some snow over the next two weeks or so? My gut says yes, stay tuned and I will keep you updated!
