Cooler For New Year, Artic Outbreak, Southern Snows Possible 2nd Week

Fortunately, last night's storms had more bark than bite with limited damages & minor flooding.  Yes, 2 people were killed, but SPC indicated it could have been far worse.  Rainfall amounts were generally 1-2" despite all the thunder & lightning.  It was scary at times, but the upper system actually weakened as it moved through.  Today it has lifted to the Ohio Valley with no severe storms, but lots of rain.  For late December, one would expect some snow on the north side of the low, but it's all rain.

It can't snow without cold air and there is none over the lower 48.  The front that staggered through over night has stalled over the Gulf and only a little drier air has moved in.  Note, dew points remain in the 50s behind the front and that low level moisture could mean more dense fog is likely tomorrow morning. Satellite views show a slight eastern upper trough, but that's lifting out.

We'll see another cold front push through late Tuesday clearing us out for the evening's fireworks.  It will cool us to seasonal temperatures for the rest of this week,

For all you snow geeks out there, I'm seeing a deep dip in the jet stream over the eastern states for the 2nd week in January.  Here's the upper air forecast for Jan. 10th & 12th.

IF that proves valid, there will be freezing temperatures plunging off the Gulf Coast down over Florida.  Well, if we get cold enough, could we see snow?  Maybe.  Here are the surface maps for Friday Jan. 10th and Sunday the 12th. The top view does have a low down in the Gulf south of us.

As the low lifts to the NE, it will draw down the Arctic air behind it.  The bottom view for Sunday the 12th has freezing temps even down to the South Shore.   A lot has to happen between now and then.  1st off, Canada has to get cold.

Some bitter cold is starting to show up in Alaska and we'll have plenty of time to watch it during the next 10-14 days.  Still, wanted to give you cold weather lovers something to look forward to.  After another Saint's miserable performance, we need something to cheer us up!  Maybe some snow?  Stay tuned!