Country Herald is Local News, Independent Pulse. Covering breaking local news, sports, lifestyle and events.
The Mid-Atlantic is preparing for a significant winter storm followed by an extended blast of Arctic cold that is expected to impact Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey from Thursday, January 22, through Sunday, January 26, according to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center.
Forecasters say confidence is increasing that the region will see disruptive winter weather, including snow, sleet, freezing rain, and dangerous cold, with impacts likely to stretch into early next week.
Snow and Ice Threat Builds Late Week
The storm is expected to move into the region late Friday into the weekend, with precipitation spreading west to east.
- Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey are more likely to see accumulating snow, which could become heavy at times and lead to snow-covered roads and reduced visibility.
- Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and southern New Jersey face a higher risk of freezing rain and sleet, raising concerns for icy roads, downed trees, and power outages, especially where ice accretion occurs.
Even small amounts of ice could have outsized impacts, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and untreated secondary roads.
Arctic Cold Follows the Storm
Behind the storm system, Arctic air will surge into the Mid-Atlantic, bringing temperatures well below normal from late weekend into early next week.
- Overnight lows may drop into the teens and single digits, especially across inland areas.
- Wind chills below zero are possible in parts of Pennsylvania, northern Maryland, and interior New Jersey.
- Prolonged cold could increase the risk of frozen pipes, especially where power outages occur.
Travel and Safety Concerns
The combination of wintry precipitation and extreme cold could lead to significant travel disruptions, particularly during the weekend and early next week. Emergency managers urge residents to prepare now by reviewing travel plans, checking heating systems, and ensuring winter emergency kits are ready…