Regions affected by a recent cold snap are set to experience a warming trend beginning this weekend, with temperatures expected to rise to or exceed seasonal averages in the days ahead.
Warm air is set to begin moving in on Sunday, with widespread effects anticipated by the start of the new workweek.
Temperatures in both Chicago and New York are anticipated to reach the 40s and 50s, while Buffalo is projected to finally surpass freezing and maintain those levels by the weekend’s end.
“We’re nearly flipping the script entirely at the start of the new week,” said FOX Weather Meteorologist Jane Minar.
In contrast to the Arctic blast that left over 200 million people facing below-average temperatures, this time more than 200 million will enjoy the advantages of warmer air.
The rise in temperature may be pleasant for many, but it could also create challenges, particularly for areas still recovering from heavy snowfall.
“Two days ago, I remember the 50 mph wind gusts and wind chills that were not only in the single digits but below zero. Now, Minneapolis will be in the mid-40s,” said FOX Weather Meteorologist Ian Oliver.
The FOX Forecast Center alerts that the mix of above-average temperatures and rainfall over the weekend and into the early week is likely to cause localized flooding, particularly near the significant lake-effect snow accumulations in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York.
Experts in the region are currently alerting residents to the possible risk of flooding; however, the effects are not deemed extensive enough to justify the issuance of Flood Watches prior to the thawing process.
The durability of the warm air remains uncertain, with forecast models indicating an impending arctic plunge beginning mid- to late week.
In a manner reminiscent of the latest cold snap, warmer water temperatures are anticipated to invigorate the lake-effect snow phenomenon, particularly benefiting areas situated downwind of the Great Lakes.
As the snow cover begins to melt, it’s important to note that a significant portion may still remain when the forecast indicates a return of heavy snowfall.
A recent analysis by NOAA reveals that 21.5% of the nation is currently blanketed in snow. This coverage is anticipated to diminish swiftly in the upcoming days, though it is unlikely to reach zero.
Some regions are expected to see snow lingering on the ground for much of the month, and possibly throughout the season.
This year’s snow cover significantly exceeds last year’s levels, which saw only 15.1% of the country blanketed in snow, and aligns closely with the figures from 2022, where 24.3% of the country experienced frozen precipitation.
The thawing of ice layers is expected to take place throughout the Midwest, heightening the risks for individuals who explore lakes.
In the early days of 2024, multiple fatalities were reported in the northern regions as individuals took risks on dangerously thin ice.
Authorities consistently warn individuals against stepping onto ice whose thickness is uncertain.
A minimum of 4 inches of ice is required to adequately support a person’s weight, while it is advisable to have at least 8 inches before considering driving a small vehicle on it.
The extent of ice coverage generally reaches its maximum in mid-February, though it can fluctuate based on the prevailing climate conditions of the winter season.