Blizzard conditions in the northern plains the first sign our arctic air.
The middle of January is when climate data shows is the coldest time of the year for us. Although the days have been getting longer, and the sun higher in our sky for 3 weeks, the solar energy is still not strong enough to make a difference. (click here my post on solar storms worst case scenario). This lag results in the coldest air for most of the northern hemisphere- on average- now! I'll post an graph later today, but basically- our normal high bottoms out at 41F for Baltimore from Jan 5th to Jan 29th. The record lowest temperature reading of -7F was hit three times. Jan 17 in 1982; Jan 22 in 1984; and Jan 29th in 1963.
The morning's weather map above shows the storm bringing blizzard conditions to the northern plains, the leading edge of the arctic air that will arrive tomorrow. The bright cloud band off of the coast is the southern branch of the jet stream. 
When the two combine, monster storms develop. This 'phasing' will occur, but right now it looks to be offshore. See map at the left. I'd hate to step our of line during this pathetic winter (for us), but all hope is not lost yet. If this weekend's storm is any indication, the verification has been farther west and north with most storms. If you live along the immediate coastline, I would not ignore this just yet. The storm is expected to phase with the arctic jet by the time it reaches New England, but any western push would clip the coastline.
Arctic Air:
.JPG)
All the hype of the cold air will verify. It will be frigid. Just look at the upper level temperature map for Friday morning. The red shading over central Maryland is -22C at 5,000ft. That would translate to a surface temperature near 10F. You'll also see a Low to our north. The surface Low should reach us Thursday with a chance of light snow as the arctic air arrives.
I will out of town on another 'snow research' trip this week. I am heading to 7 Springs Resort in western PA, and will provide video reports daily. It is also Steelers Country and I will be representing the Ravens, so it could get interesting. This will may be a stop over for some sports coverage as well, so stay tuned.
Comments
I have to say, this cold air is great and all, but looking at the football game last night in Pennsylvania made my heart sink. Where is the moisture and the correct track in order to give us the moisture when we have this cold air in place! It's very frustrating. Do we still have a chance for major winter storms, or have we reached the end of our chances??
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!