US: Adverse winter weather forecast over eastern and northeastern regions through at least early Jan. 8

Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the eastern and northeastern US through at least early Jan. 8. A winter storm system is expected to move northeastward across the affected area Jan. 6-7, bringing a mix of snowfall, freezing rain, sleet, and rain across the region. Snowfall is likely on the northern side of the storm track and rainfall on the southern side; however, the exact area of transition is uncertain at this stage. Snowfall accumulations of more than 10 cm (4 inches) are possible in parts of eastern West Virginia, western Maryland, and south-central Pennsylvania Jan. 6 and accumulations of more than 20 cm (8 inches) are possible from northeastern Pennsylvania and interior northern New Jersey through interior southern New England to coastal Maine Jan. 7. Ice accumulations of at least 0.25 cm (0.1 inches) are possible in the Appalachian regions of western North Carolina, western Virginia, and eastern West Virginia Jan, 6. Strong winds are also expected across parts of the region as the storm system passes through, especially in coastal areas. Heavy snowfall may combine with blustery winds to cause low visibility and hazardous driving conditions across parts of the affected area.

As of early Jan. 5, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings across parts of eastern North Carolina and east-central Virginia. Winter storm watches are in place for parts of northern Virginia, northeastern West Virginia, eastern and northern Maryland, central, eastern, and southern Pennsylvania, central New York, Connecticut, central and northern Rhode Island, Massachusetts, southern and south-central Vermont, southern New Hampshire, and southwestern Maine. Winter weather advisories have been issued across much of the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area, especially at higher elevations. Lesser accumulations are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow, and precipitation is less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in some areas. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.