A powerful cross-country storm system is set to hit the region with heavy rain, damaging winds, and rapid temperature changes that could bring snow to parts of the Northeast.
The National Weather Service warned that strong wind gusts, some exceeding 50 to 60 mph, along with bursts of heavy rain, are sweeping through major cities from Chicago to Boston, including New York City, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia.
The volatile weather moved in Thursday evening, Dec. 18, and is expected to persist into Friday, Dec. 19.
AccuWeather reports the storm will push a surge of springlike warmth into the region, sending temperatures into the upper 40s and lower 50s.
A sharp cold front will then bring a quick drop in temperatures, allowing rain to change over to snow and ice in some locations. Rainfall totals could reach around an inch, with locally higher amounts possible.
“Along much of the I-95 zone, some of the strongest wind gusts will occur late Thursday night to Friday morning rush hour, right as the storm’s cold front swings through,” AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dave Dombek said. “Downed trees, branches, and power outages could result at this time.”
Existing snowpack is expected to melt rapidly as rain falls and temperatures rise. AccuWeather warned that the combination of steady rainfall and melting snow could increase the risk of urban flooding, especially in areas with clogged storm drains.
Widespread wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph are expected through Thursday night into Friday morning, with slightly lower gusts of 30 to 40 mph during the day Friday. Coastal areas, including Boston and Portland, Maine, could see gusts as strong as 60 mph.
After the rain moves out Friday, colder air will settle in, pushing wind chill values into the 30s. Parts of upstate New York, the Appalachians, and northern New England may see a mix of rain and snow.
As the front continues east on Friday, Dec. 19, areas of upstate New York, northern Pennsylvania, and northern New England are expected to experience a rain-and-snow mix.
Travel disruptions are likely, with hazardous conditions possible due to heavy rain, strong winds, and the risk of flash freezing. Slick roads, reduced visibility, and airline delays are possible along the busy I-95 corridor.
Conditions are expected to improve heading into the weekend, with some sunshine and seasonable temperatures returning.
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