A major cross-country storm system is expected to batter the region, bringing torrential rain, destructive winds, and abrupt temperature fluctuations that will cause snow in some Northeast locales.
The National Weather Service warns that high wind gusts, some reaching 50 or 60 mph, as well as heavy rain, are sweeping across major cities from Chicago to Boston, including New York City, Washington, DC, and Philadelphia.
The crazy weather came Thursday evening, December 18, and is predicted to last through Friday, December 19.
According to AccuWeather, the storm will bring springlike warmth, with temperatures reaching the upper 40s and lower 50s.
A sharp cold front will bring a sudden chill as well as the possibility of snow and ice in certain regions. Rainfall totals might reach one inch, with higher amounts likely in some areas.
“Along much of the I-95 zone, some of the strongest wind gusts will occur from 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.”
Much of the present snowpack will melt quickly as rain falls and temperatures rise. The combination of persistent rain and melting snow may increase the risk of urban floods, especially if storm drains become clogged, according to AccuWeather.
Wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph are likely through Thursday night and Friday morning, with slightly lower gusts of 30-40 mph forecast during the day on Friday. Winds might gust up to 60 mph along the coast, including in Boston and Portland, Maine.
Wind gusts will range from 40 to 50 mph on Thursday night, December 18, through Friday, December 19, with gusts as high as 60 mph farther north and east.
After the rain stops Friday, colder air will move in, with wind chills dipping into the 30s. Rain and snow are forecast in regions of upstate New York, the Appalachians, and northern New England.
As the front approaches on Friday, December 19, locations in upstate New York, northern Pennsylvania, and northern New England will get a combination of snow and rain.
Travelers should be prepared for delays and hazardous conditions, as rain, strong winds, and the possibility of flash freezes could cause slick roads and limited visibility. Airline delays are also anticipated on the congested I-95 corridor.
Conditions are predicted to improve throughout the weekend, with some sun and seasonable temperatures.
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