Above is the latest snowfall accumulation map for the upcoming weekend, indicating a range of 21-25+ inches of snow across a broad area, include the metro. Here's where you have to be very careful when using models for forecasting. While I think we will see some snow this weekend, the amounts depicted above are off the charts, and don't consider some of the most important parameters. For instance, ground temperatures are still warm and near-surface temperatures look like they will be a little above freezing for part of the event. There's also a signal that some of the precipitation will fall as rain. My feeling is that we will see snow in the metro, but how much of it accumulates is still very much in question. I do feel that some part of central Virginia could get as much as a foot of snow. I'll address the system again and have more specifics on snowfall totals on Thursday. Till then snow lovers, pray for snow!
