The recent rain in Baltimore was insufficient to alleviate the ongoing drought, with the region remaining significantly below average rainfall. The weekend will be cool and dry, with mild weather expected into next week before rain and the first mountain snow arrive midweek. Tropical Storm Sara is causing severe flooding in Central America but is expected to dissipate inland, reducing the threat to Florida. A colder weather pattern is anticipated to set in by Thanksgiving.
The updated winter temperature outlook from The Weather Company and Atmospheric G2 predicts a milder winter for the South and East of the United States, while the Northwest is expected to experience colder-than-average temperatures. The forecast, influenced by La Niña conditions, suggests that the South and East will see above-average temperatures from December through February, with the Northwest and parts of the northern Rockies and Plains trending colder. The potential for cold spells is higher in December, with a lower chance of polar vortex disruptions in January and February.
Minnesota is set to experience a shift to more typical winter weather, with colder temperatures and snow chances ahead. Northern parts of the state have already seen light snow, causing slick roads, and a more significant snow system is expected Friday into Saturday. While snow accumulations in the Twin Cities are predicted to be light, areas north will see more. Temperatures will drop over the next week, with a potential subzero outbreak forecasted for late next week.
Pittsburgh is experiencing light snow and drizzle on New Year's Day, leading to potential slick spots on roads. Temperatures are slightly above average but will hover near freezing, with overcast skies and mixed precipitation expected throughout the day. The KDKA Weather Center advises caution due to isolated slick areas and mentions a possible significant snow event Saturday into Sunday, with models predicting over 6 inches of snow, though there is uncertainty regarding temperature effects on snow accumulation.
Michigan is set to experience a return of snow showers on New Year's Eve after a mostly snowless December. Temperatures will be milder than average but cooler than recent days, with lows in the 30s across the Lower Peninsula and mid to upper 20s in the Upper Peninsula. Light snowfall is expected throughout the day, with less than an inch of accumulation in northern Lower Michigan. Evening celebrations are likely to be chilly with temperatures dropping after sunset, but the weather will remain relatively calm, allowing for outdoor New Year festivities.
