Snowshoe in West Virginia is in a prime location for wintry weather this week. (Snowshoe)
The weather pattern change we have been waiting for in the East is finally here bringing cold temperatures and snow, while the West continues to be sunny and dry.
Eastern U.S. & Canada
We’re getting an early gift of cold temperatures and potential snowstorms through mid-December. Below-average temperatures will reach far south with potential for accumulating snow Friday and Saturday across parts of Georgia, the Carolinas, and Virginia.
Two more systems, one Sunday-Monday and another Tuesday-Wednesday show potential of strengthening off the coast of New England. Exact snow forecasts can vary greatly, so we’ll play it safe and say there will be potential for nice, accumulating snow with each. Stratton Mountain in Vermont is one of many prime spots this week.
Meanwhile, lake effect snow showers will be likely across all of the Great Lakes. Several inches will fall through the period on the east/southeast sides of the lakes. These flakes will reach to places such as Gore Mountain in New York.
Western U.S. & Canada
After a month of consistent moisture coming out of the northeast Pacific and the Gulf of Alaska, a large area of high pressure is now settling into the West (circled below in blue), pushing all moisture well north. This high pressure system will remain in place through mid-December bringing warm and dry conditions to most of the West.
Expect bluebird days, little natural snowfall, and above-average temperatures. Head out, enjoy the sun, and you may not have to bundle up as much. There is plenty of snow depth at Grand Targhee in Wyoming and Big White Ski Resort in British Columbia. A few small weather disturbances may bring light snowfall during the weekend and early in the week. Ski areas will have to depend on making snow to add to the base depths.
Lyndon State College seniors Liam Kelleher and Philomon Geertson contributed to this article.