Get ready for a frigid weekend as a powerful clipper-type storm brings Arctic air and plummeting temperatures to the region, with snow showers and gusty winds expected.
A powerful clipper-type storm is rapidly moving southward across the Great Lakes, bringing with it a mass of mid-winter Arctic air that will plunge temperatures significantly over the weekend.
Arctic air refers to cold air masses originating from the Arctic region.
These air masses are characterized by low temperatures and high humidity, often resulting in significant snowfall and freezing precipitation.
The formation of arctic air is influenced by temperature differences between the equator and the polar regions, driven by global wind patterns and ocean currents.
Arctic air can have a profound impact on weather conditions, particularly in mid-latitude regions where it can bring extreme cold snaps.
Forecast for Friday
The storm’s effects are already being felt on Friday afternoon, as a mix of precipitation begins to brush ‘Buffalo metro‘ northward. This precipitation will change to rain showers across much of the region by evening, but quickly shifts to snow showers toward Saturday morning with sharply falling temperatures. Winds will be gusty, especially in the late afternoon and evening, with speeds reaching up to 40 mph.
Weekend Outlook
Temperatures will continue to plummet on Saturday, with bitter wind chill values making it feel even colder. Snow showers will settle southward into ski country, with temperatures dropping into the teens by late afternoon. On Sunday, the region can expect continued cold and cloudy conditions, with localized lake-effect snow showers possible.
Wind chill is a measure of how cold it feels outside when wind speed and temperature combine.
It's calculated using the temperature and wind speed to determine the perceived chill on human skin.
The formula for wind chill was developed in 2001 by researchers at the University of Oregon, taking into account the effects of wind on the body's ability to lose heat.
Wind chill is commonly used in weather forecasting to provide a more accurate representation of the cold conditions.
Lake-effect snow is a type of lake-effect precipitation that occurs when cold air passes over warmer lake waters, causing the water to evaporate and rise as moisture-laden air.
This process leads to intense snowfall in specific areas downwind of the lakes.
In North America, the Great Lakes are responsible for significant lake-effect snow events, particularly in regions such as Buffalo, New York, and Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
The resulting snow can be incredibly heavy, with some areas receiving over 6 feet of snow in a single event.
Early Week Forecast
Moderating temperatures take hold on Monday, bringing partly to mostly sunny skies and a high of 32 degrees. However, this warmth will be short-lived, as a rapidly deepening storm system moves into the area by Tuesday. This system will bring potentially damaging wind gusts, mild temperatures, and soaking rain showers.
Wednesday and Thursday
By Wednesday, the region can expect mild temperatures, with highs reaching up to 55 degrees. However, this warmth will be followed by a return to colder conditions on Thursday, with snow showers and highs in the mid-20s.
- yahoo.com | Temperatures set to plummet this weekend
- wivb.com | Temperatures set to plummet this weekend
