Weather Service: ‘Significant Snowstorm’ Possible this Week

If you are tired of winter weather, you won't want to hear this, but there's the possibility of a big snowfall coming this week in New Jersey.

According to the National Weather Service, a nor'easter could affect us this Wednesday night and Thursday.

But, the weather service is quick to point out that, despite the rumors spreading about a major snow event by mid-week, it's not close to a done deal.

Ray Martin, a lead meteorologist at the weather service office in Mount Holly told the Philadelphia Inquirer that it's too early to talk about a storm with any certainty, but the European model is favoring the chance for a major snowstorm.

“It seems like it’s been forever since it happened.” But in this case, Martin said, “the potential is there.”

The weather service is posting a 60% chance of snow Wednesday night and Thursday.

What is Possible This Week

Just days after a quick-hitting storm left six inches or more in parts of South Jersey, the strongest east coast snowstorm of the season has a very good chance to develop this week.

Meteorologists are reluctant to make snowfall predictions more than 3 days out, but the European model suggests the possibility of moderate to heavy snow approaching our area Wednesday night into Thursday morning.

Conditions could turn bad during the day on Thursday with strong winds and possible blizzard conditions, according to JustinWeather.com.

This would be in the weak Category 2 Hurricane range. Powerful Nor’easters have been called winter hurricanes. Winds can be over 75 with 50FT waves in the ocean and blizzard conditions in the snow zone inland.

While I showed the 6-inch plus odds, this does have the potential to drop over 12 inches, especially considering the cold temperatures and ‘fluff’ factor.

 

Meteorologist Dan Zarrow Preaches Caution

My buddy Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media's Chief Meteorologist, says it's too soon for a mad dash to the grocery store for bread and milk.

In fact, I will say this is the best heavy snowstorm setup I have seen for New Jersey in years.

Both 0 and 2+ feet of snow are possibilities here. I'm sorry, but we have to be patient and let things play out a bit more.