Winter Storm Blair forecast to bring heavy snow, ice, and bitter cold to various parts of the U.S. on January 5, 2025.

Winter Storm Blair forecast to bring heavy snow, ice, and bitter cold to various parts of the U.S. on January 5, 2025.

As of January 4, 2025, the United States is preparing for a significant winter storm, unofficially named Winter Storm Blair. This storm is expected to affect a large portion of the country, bringing a mix of heavy snowfall, ice, and freezing temperatures from the Central Plains to the Mid-Atlantic.

General Overview:

Winter Storm Blair is projected to impact approximately 250 million people across 40 states. The storm originates from an Arctic outbreak caused by disruptions in the polar vortex and a blocking high over Greenland. This pattern is allowing cold Arctic air to sweep into the U.S.

Regional Forecasts:

1. Northeast (e.g., New York City, Philadelphia):
   • New York City: The region will experience a sharp drop in temperatures, with highs in the upper 20s°F (-2 to -3°C). Snow showers are expected to begin Sunday night, possibly resulting in 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm) of snow accumulation by Monday, likely causing travel disruptions.
   • Philadelphia: A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Sunday night through late Monday night. Heavy snow is possible, with total accumulations between 3 and 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm), making travel conditions difficult.
2. Midwest (e.g., Chicago):
   • Chicago: The day will begin sunny before becoming cloudy by afternoon. Highs are expected to reach around 30°F (-1°C), with lows near 27°F (-3°C). Light snow may occur, but significant accumulation is unlikely.
3. South (e.g., Houston, Dallas, San Antonio):
   • Houston: Windy conditions with a mix of sun and clouds are expected. A thunderstorm in the afternoon could bring heavy rainfall, hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes. Highs may reach 79°F (26°C), dropping sharply to 31°F (-1°C) overnight.
   • Dallas: The day will start sunny, becoming windier and cooler later. Highs around 65°F (18°C) will fall to lows near 22°F (-6°C) by night.
   • San Antonio: Partly sunny and warm conditions are forecasted, with highs near 78°F (25°C). Temperatures will drop significantly overnight to lows of 33°F (1°C).
4. West (e.g., Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose):
   • Los Angeles: Partly sunny skies are expected with highs of 73°F (23°C) and lows around 50°F (10°C).
   • San Diego: A mix of sun and clouds is anticipated, with highs near 69°F (20°C) and lows around 46°F (8°C).
   • San Jose: Sunny skies with occasional clouds are forecasted, with highs of 65°F (18°C) and lows near 45°F (7°C).
5. Southwest (e.g., Phoenix):
   • Phoenix: Mostly sunny conditions are expected, with highs around 69°F (20°C) and lows near 44°F (7°C).

Severe Weather Alerts:

• A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for parts of the Mid-Atlantic, including Philadelphia, from late Sunday night through late Monday night. Residents should monitor updates and prepare for hazardous travel conditions.

Additional Considerations:

• The impending Arctic outbreak is expected to bring some of the coldest January temperatures in over a decade to the Southern United States. In Dallas, temperatures could drop to the teens, while Houston and Jacksonville may see temperatures between 20 and 30°F (-6 to -1°C). This prolonged cold could pose risks to crops and infrastructure, such as frozen pipes.
• Significant ice accumulation is expected from eastern Kansas through Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia. This could lead to hazardous travel conditions and power outages.

Recommendations for Residents:

• Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from local weather services for the latest forecasts and advisories.
• Prepare for Power Outages: Stock up on flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food in case of extended power disruptions.
• Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Refrain from traveling during the storm, particularly in areas under advisories. If travel is unavoidable, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle.
• Protect Property: Insulate pipes and ensure outdoor animals and plants are safeguarded from the cold.

In summary, Winter Storm Blair is poised to bring a variety of severe weather conditions across the U.S. on January 5, 2025. Residents in affected areas should take necessary precautions to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.