The new data we're analyzing portrays a rather ominous picture for the region, beginning tomorrow afternoon. Two areas of low pressure, one from the north and one from the south, will likely merge off the mid-Atlantic coast developing into a very powerful storm Tuesday night and Wednesday. Though this storm will not have the same amount of moisture as Snowmageddon, models suggest a deeper storm (i.e. more intense meteorologically) which will pose a significant risk of high winds and additional power outages.
The probability of potentially dangerous conditions is highest north and east of the beltway and especially as you head towards Baltimore and Philadelphia. However, even our southern suburbs may experience periods of heavy snow and wind.
FREQUENT QUESTIONS
When will the snow start? Between mid-day and mid-afternoon tomorrow.
When it will end? Probably around late afternoon Wednesday -- later north and east.
How much?: Our best bet is 5-10" in the metro region, but 8-14" as you head north and east towards Baltimore. South and southwest of the Fairfax County, 3-6" is most likely.
Could it be more or less? Yes. Double digit totals (10" or more) remain a possibility throughout the metro region (25% chance). By the same token, if the coastal storm forms too far north, lighter amounts from 1-5" or so might do it.
How bad will the winds be? By very late Tuesday night and into Wednesday, sustained winds may reach 25-35 mph, with higher gusts. Assuming there is falling snow, this could create blizzard conditions.
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