As we approach the week before Christmas, an uncharacteristically warm spell is expected to blanket much of the country, setting temperatures soaring way above average. This warm-up, however, paints only part of the picture as an area of low pressure is gradually stewing, moving from the southwest to Texas, bringing the possibility of heavy rain and mountain snow.
In parts of New Mexico through Colorado, mountain regions are poised to receive an impressive downpour of snow, with anticipated volumes reaching up to 2 feet high. This comes as a boon for skiing enthusiasts eagerly awaiting pristine skiing conditions. However, in contrast, the heavier rain expected along the warmer side of the storm could lead to a dampened situation for states like Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana.
The imminent warm spell, coupled with the low-pressure system, is a cause for concern as it coincides with one of the busiest travel weeks in the year, the week leading to Christmas. Particularly, areas along the Gulf Coast, up to the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeast, will need to keep tabs on this evolving weather system since it is estimated to persist from Sunday through Tuesday.
A comparative review of reliable American and European weather forecast models reveals divergent predictions for the upcoming week with the American model painting a picture of offshore rain events and snow for interior sections. Ideally, this period would be the perfect opportunity for a blanket of beautiful Christmas snow. However, data from past seasons indicate that chances for a white Christmas along the coastal Northeast are slim with more promising odds for interior sections.
But with the looming system due for the week of Christmas, its intensification could herald a rather snowy situation. Such a scenario — while potentially disruptive for travel plans — would surely delight the children eagerly anticipating a snowy festive season.
Amid all this, New York City's Central Park's unprecedented streak of close to 700 snow-less days stands a chance to be broken, given the arising conditions. However, for the snow-filled Christmas dream to become a reality, we would require the currently brewing weather system to palpably intensify. Only time will tell if such a dramatic turn of events will unfold.
