This is a quick update on a developing storm in the plains. Currently 20 states have weather advisories and warnings from the developing storm and national travel will be greatly impacted starting on the afternoon of the 23rd through the 26th.
As the storm deepens, sustained winds (without gusts) are expected to increase to 25 to 35 mph by late on the 24th, with gusts to near 50 mph by late on Christmas Eve into early Christmas Day. Winds around 5,000 feet are forecast to be over 80 mph and it's possible for some of that wind energy to be directed toward the ground as bands of rain move across the area. Winds may potentially gust to 60 mph, and with wet ground in the area already and heavy rain expected on Christmas Eve, we may have tree failure in the area and numerous power outages.
This is a powerful storm coming together and extra caution must be exercised when traveling and preparations must be made in case power is out on Christmas morning.
Up to an inch of rain is possible with the rainfall on Christmas Eve and we may even have a few thunderstorms with this system...
It could be worse...you could be facing near-blizzard conditions and heavy snow which is what is forecast in the plains states.
Rich Apuzzo
Chief Meteorologist
Skyeye Weather
www.skyeyeweather.com
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