I’m blessed to have family in town this weekend so posts will be a bit off schedule the next few days, but keep it tuned here as they will come!
What a remarkable January this is as temperatures are averaging more than 9 degrees (fahrenheit) below average AND COLDER than last January. While I know snow lovers are wanting more snow (yours truly included), one has to sit back and really appreciate the pattern for what it is from a cold standpoint. I would go as far as to argue this pattern is actually more impressive than last January as the cold has come in the face of what’s been a much less impressive snow pack (for the most part).
Despite a brief “relaxation” now, models suggest the cold comes on like gangbusters yet again to wrap up the month. Given where we’ve been and what appears to lie ahead, it would seem as if this January will be even colder than last January- not only through the first half, but at month’s end. It’ll be fascinating to watch unfold.
Speaking of snow, I still believe this is the type pattern that can “flip on a dime” in the snow department. The sea surface temperature profile and analogs at least suggest we’re on the playing field for a stormy ride through the month of February and even into March this year. Does it mean it has to be a snowy pattern? No, but at this distance it’s at least nice knowing we’re on the field with a chance to win the game.
In the shorter term, a windy “mild up” will occur Saturday as highs reach the middle to upper 40s with a gusty southwest wind in play. Winds will top 30-40 MPH so you’ll definitely want to “batten down the hatches” Saturday.
