2024 Ends with New Year’s Storm Bringing Rain and Snow to the Northeast
A storm will sweep from the Midwest to the Northeast over New Year’s Eve, bringing widespread rain and snow. Predictions indicate warmer temperatures prior to the storm, with significant rainfall in areas such as New York City, while snow accumulations of 1 to 6 inches are expected from Montana to Iowa. As temperatures drop, snow may follow in the central and northern Appalachians, affecting travel conditions in elevated regions.
As the year 2024 concludes and 2025 begins, a significant storm is anticipated to traverse from the Midwest to the Northeast, bringing rain and snow across various regions. Meteorologists predict that the hours leading up to the New Year will remain warmer than usual, yet widespread rain is expected along the East Coast. The storm is projected to travel from the northern Plains, impacting travel conditions as it moves into the Midwest and Northeast.
The snow accumulation will range from 1 to 3 inches in many areas, particularly from Montana to Iowa, with a localized pocket near Omaha potentially receiving 3 to 6 inches. Conversely, cities such as St. Louis and Indianapolis are expected to experience mainly rain, although some regions may see a mix of rain and snow as the storm progresses. Periods of slippery travel are anticipated in cities like Chicago and Detroit as rain and wet snow impact the area through Tuesday.
As the storm approaches the Northeast Wednesday, it is expected to bring rain across the Ohio Valley, mid-Atlantic, and New England regions. Specifically, in Midtown Manhattan, heavy rain is predicted to fall between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, continuing until after midnight. The temperature at midnight is expected to hover around 50°F; however, the wind chill may make it feel considerably colder.
Following the storm, colder air will infiltrate the region, resulting in a transition from rain to snow in parts of the Appalachians, leading to potential lake-effect snowfall around the Great Lakes area. Accumulations will vary based on elevation, with the potential for up to 18 inches of snow on higher ground. Interstates in these elevated areas are likely to become slippery due to snow coverage.
The onset of the New Year will herald a shift to colder conditions, with expectations of additional winter storms bringing snow and ice as colder air continues to affect the Central and Southern states into mid-January.
The upcoming storm represents a significant weather event as it transitions the calendar year from 2024 to 2025. Such storms are noteworthy for their potential to alter holiday plans, particularly for New Year’s festivities which often involve outdoor celebrations. Additionally, this storm’s trajectory—from the upper Midwest through the Northeast—underscores the various weather patterns that can emerge during this transitional period. Meteorological predictions highlight the complexity of forecasting variations in precipitation types, which can include rain, snow, and combinations thereof, influenced by temperature fluctuations.
In conclusion, the impending New Year’s storm promises to significantly affect weather conditions from the Midwest through the Northeast, bringing a mix of rain and snow as 2024 ends. Travelers should prepare for potentially hazardous conditions, particularly in elevated regions. As the storm makes its passage, individuals in affected areas must remain informed and vigilant about changing weather patterns.
Original Source: www.accuweather.com
