Lehigh Valley Forecasts Moderate Snowfall Amid Dry Conditions

The Lehigh Valley is expected to face a snowstorm resulting in 1 to 3 inches of snow on Monday, with potential reductions in accumulation due to dry air. Nearby regions may experience more severe weather, including blizzards, while the Valley itself is forecasted to have calmer conditions and light winds. Meteorological experts remain vigilant about evolving conditions.

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — A snowstorm that has been anticipated for the past week is projected to deliver approximately 1 to 3 inches of snow to the Lehigh Valley on Monday. The National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center indicates that the most severe weather conditions will impact the Central Plains and the Mid-Atlantic region, where heavy snowfall, ice, and freezing rain are expected.

Although winter weather advisories apply to neighboring counties such as Berks and Montgomery, warnings extend further northwest into Schuylkill County, forecasting treacherous travel conditions. The Lehigh Valley may experience snow accumulations of less than half an inch tonight, with heavier snowfall predicted before 2 p.m. on Monday, and an additional light accumulation overnight.

Bobby Martrich, an EPAWA meteorologist, noted that the region would witness snowfall amounts less than what was previously predicted. The southern portions of the Valley are expected to receive the highest amounts; however, the cold, dry air mass known as “Arctic high pressure” from Canada may diminish snowfall totals by causing evaporation of snow before it reaches the ground.

Areas further south, including Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia, are expected to see more significant accumulations, ranging from 6 to 10 inches. In stark contrast, blizzard conditions with wind gusts surpassing 40 mph and snowfall exceeding 15 inches are predicted for parts of Kansas and Missouri—marking the heaviest snowfall in a decade. In the Lehigh Valley, conditions will remain more stable, with westward winds up to 5 mph tonight, calm weather tomorrow, and gusts up to 20 mph anticipated later in the evening.

The article concerns an impending snowstorm predicted to impact the Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania. Various meteorological forecasts including those from the National Weather Service have been issued. Clarifications about expected snow accumulations, local weather conditions, and comparisons with regional weather phenomena are provided. The impact of dry air on snowfall accumulation is an important factor in the forecast. Additionally, the contrast of weather conditions expected in nearby regions is discussed, highlighting the significance of local weather forecasting and its variances on a broader scale.

In summary, the Lehigh Valley is bracing for a snowstorm that will result in moderate snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches. Contributing factors, such as the influence of dry Arctic air, may lead to lower than anticipated snowfall totals. Noteworthy weather conditions are expected in adjacent regions, further underlining the variability of winter weather and its implications for travel and safety in the area. Overall, while the threat of winter weather is present, the impact in the Lehigh Valley is anticipated to be less severe than in areas further south, where more substantial snow is forecasted.

Original Source: www.lehighvalleynews.com