Janice R. Andrews
Warmer Weather Ahead, But Rain Follows
Though it’s still technically fall, much of the central, eastern, and southern United States has felt like midwinter, thanks to a biting Arctic blast. Fortunately, relief is on the way, with forecasters confirming that temperatures will begin to moderate next week. However, this warming trend comes with a twist—rain and fog are set to replace the cold.
A Cold, Snowy Weekend for the Northeast
Before the thaw, parts of the northeastern U.S. must endure a frigid and snowy weekend. “After a January-like cold start to the weekend in the East, temperatures will gradually climb into the first part of next week,” AccuWeather meteorologist Alex Sosnowski shared.
While warmer air brings a reprieve from the freezing conditions, it will also lead to widespread rain and fog across southern and eastern regions. Forecasters predict a series of storms between Sunday and Thursday, bringing heavy rain to many areas.
Rainfall to Soak the South and East
Sosnowski cautions that the transition will come with “episodes of rain, drizzle, and fog” across a wide swath of the country. Anticipated precipitation includes:
- Central Gulf Coast: 2–4 inches of rain
- Southeast: 1–2 inches
- Mid-Atlantic and New England: Approximately 1 inch of rain
Some regions, particularly in the Midwest and Appalachians, could see a mix of snow as colder air lingers.
Snowfall Continues Near the Great Lakes
Lake-effect snow remains a dominant force in the Great Lakes area, driven by Arctic air passing over the warmer lake waters. By Saturday, a quick-moving clipper system will expand snowfall coverage across the region.
Snowfall predictions include:
- Lake Ontario’s Eastern Shore: Up to 2 feet of additional snow through Saturday
- Upper and Lower Great Lakes: 1–3 inches, with localized amounts of 6–12 inches in mountainous areas
AccuWeather meteorologist Grady Gilman expects significant snowfall in parts of northern New York and northern New England.
Mild Temperatures Return
As the Arctic air retreats, southwesterly winds will bring a noticeable warm-up early next week, especially in the central and northern Plains.
- Northern High Plains: Highs could surpass 60°F by Saturday afternoon.
- New England: Boston and surrounding areas may see highs in the 40s by Monday, a welcome shift from the bitter wind chills earlier in the weekend.
Unsettled Weather for the Pacific Northwest
While the East braces for rain and snow, the Pacific Northwest will see increasing unsettled weather over the weekend. Rain showers and high-elevation snow will arrive in Washington and Oregon on Saturday.
The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts:
- Mountainous Regions: Snowfall at higher elevations
- Lower Elevations: Periodic rain showers
The system is expected to push into the northern Rockies by Sunday.
Warm and Dry in the Southwest
In contrast to the rest of the nation, the Southwest will remain dry and bask in mild weather.
- Southwest Region: Highs reaching into the 80s
- Southern California to the Pacific Northwest: Daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s
Outlook for the Week Ahead
As the bitter cold dissipates, milder temperatures will bring both relief and challenges. Rain, fog, and snow will accompany the shift, making for a messy start to the week in many areas. The Pacific Northwest faces unsettled conditions, while the Southwest enjoys calm and warm weather. Residents across the country should prepare for the varying impacts as the weather evolves.
