Winter storm to move in quicker, move out faster

Credit: DaytonDailyNews

The latest projections for the looming winter storm show a shift that will bring it in quicker and move out faster.

The storm system likely will bring rain Thursday night with a changeover to a wintry mix sometime Friday morning, Storm Center 7 Chief Meteorologist Eric Elwell said.

>> What to have in your winter car kit

With the recent warmer weather, road temperatures will start out higher so the Friday morning commute is expected to be wet but not icy.

“However, conditions will likely deteriorate through the day Friday as much colder air begins to push into the region,” Elwell said. “The wintry mix will change to all snow likely around the evening commute, which could mean a mess for those heading home from work.”

>> Know the different types of Winter Weather Alerts

ajc.com

Credit: Storm Center 7 Chief Meteorologist Eric Elwell

icon to expand image

Credit: Storm Center 7 Chief Meteorologist Eric Elwell

>> 7 winter weather driving tips

The snow is forecast to continue into Friday night and taper off early Saturday morning.

If the late-day Wednesday computer model for the storm stays on track, “the faster movement of the storm should cut back on the heavier snowfall amounts that had been originally suggested by the models,” Elwell said.

>> Download our free WHIO Weather App for the latest forecast and alerts on your mobile devices

However, there is still plenty of moisture available, and it appears much of the Miami Valley easily should pick up 3 to 6 inches of snow, said Elwell, who added that higher amounts cannot be ruled out.

“We should have a lot better idea of where the storm is heading and how fast by Thursday morning. Either way, expect a wintry mess late Friday into Saturday,” Elwell said.

>> How does salt help melt ice on roads?

Gusty winds over 30 mph likely will create blowing and drifting snow, reducing visibility and re-covering roadways late Friday night into Saturday, he said.

After a break on Sunday, our Storm Center 7 team also is watching another chance for accumulating snow for Monday with a smaller storm system.

>> Unseasonably warm before bitter cold, snow return

About the Author