Most Dreaming Of White Christmas

I know many of you long for another rare southern snowstorm like last January, but it's not happening for most of the nation (outside the mountain regions) for the rest of this year.  Remember last year, the snow didn't come until January 23rd, so don't give up on a repeat just yet.  The current upper pattern has the deep trough over the western states (California is getting drenched) with a huge ridge bringing record warmth to the central plains & southern states. Let's begin with last year's snow, which was a once-in-a-lifetime event here.

I still remember having to dig out a path for my now deceased Bailey.  It wasn't a walking path, but there is something about dogs liking grass to pee & poop on.  Gosh, I miss my dog!  So sad not being able to say goodbye.   It will take a flip-flop in the current upper pattern that is keeping the Arctic air bottled up in Alaska & western Canada for us to see a snow threat.

The Weather Channel said some morning lows were near 70 below.  Still, at mid-afternoon it's still 50-55 below!  But that upper ridge is blocking any cold air from coming into the lower 48 for Christmas week.  In addition, moisture flows off the Gulf have dew points 65-70, resulting in widespread fog and some rain.

 

Look at the 80s back in Texas.  Denver is in the mid 70s!  Where it's sunny south of NOLA, temps are near 80.

The main issue for the rest of this week will be daily AM fog.  A weak cold front arrives for Monday of next week, but until then, we're in the soupy air that is making a lot of folks sick.  Either it's the flu or allergies that have many feeling blue.

With this kind of Spring-like warmth, it surely isn't feeling like Christmas.  Hang in there Gang. An upper pattern shift in January could bring us another southern once-in-a-lifetime snow, but don't bet the house on that happening!  For my Podcast subscribers, I'll have a Christmas Eve message.  Sign up at bobbreck.com.  Probably won't free post until I see a real weather change coming.  Merry Christmas!  Stay tuned!

Weak Front Stalls, Warm Christmas Week, More Fog

Today, the official start of astronomical Winter began at 9:03 AM, but the weather feels more Spring-like. In fact, all this week will stay above normal with no signs of colder air until next week.  With a weak front draped across Louisiana, a few showers have developed.

This front is expected to stall just to our north with the showers decreasing after sunset.  More dense fog is likely for morning drivetime.

This front does not have much upper support, and that can be seen in the temperature contours that are aligned west to east.  As the upper ridge over the Rockies shifts to the east, we'll stay warm with Christmas Eve & day feeling way too warm.  Until the upper flow changes back to an eastern upper trough, the Arctic chill will stay in Alaska & Canada. It remains 30-50 below zero up there.

The main weather story this week will be the rains & snows coming to California.  Locally, we could see record warmth almost any day.

Look for a stronger cold front to arrive early next week.  Finally...last night my dear friends Mark & Ivan gave their annual Christmas party.

I was able to bring my new companion, Valerie, and EVERYBODY commented on how happy I looked.  She has brought me great joy, and I'm so excited to spend the holidays with her & her family.  I will try to do a Podcast for my subscribers on Christmas Day, reflecting back on the importance of family to me.  Stay tuned!