Rain, Rain, Rain, then Ice Monday morning. The huge storm is currently pushing further north which will give us a rain and wind event. There is always a chance we will get a dusting of snow but this looks like a miss. So, Olaf Index - 0, Elsa Index - 0. I would keep the fluffanutter on hand in case the wind causes power outages.
Our new Scientific Ariel Rain Index is a solid 8. Please be aware of localized flooding and turn around - Don't Drown!!!! We have seen many new cars go into flooded areas and short out! Don't take a chance with your family or yourself!
Expect some gusting wind, Dorothy index is a 5 so keep Toto on a leash. Use this event to prepare generators and make sure you have a safe place away from the house. Make sure chimneys are clean and vented properly and never use a gas stove to heat the home.
My real concern is going to be overnight Sunday into Monday. Ice, Ice ....., Four Wheel Drive is not Four Wheel Stop. Nothing has traction on ice. Newton says an object will stay in motion unless an external force acts upon it. Don't take the risk.
Enjoy a quiet weekend.
Stay safe and warm.
Chief Garofalo
Summary:
For areas near and north of the Interstate 78 corridor, precipitation will begin as snow this afternoon, but is expected to change to a wintry mix of freezing rain and sleet tonight. Very hazardous travel conditions are expected in these areas and freezing rain and wind could lead to power outages.
Heavy rainfall in areas south of the rain/ice/snow transition zone could lead to both urban flooding Saturday night and Sunday and river flooding later Sunday into Monday. Flooding potential is largely dependent on how quickly the precipitation (starting as light snow today) changes to all rain this evening.
Sunday morning, a rapid temperature drop will lead to a hard freeze of any areas of slush and standing water, even for areas that received little to no snowfall. This will lead to very icy conditions Sunday evening and overnight. Bitterly cold air will make clearing snow and ice very difficult.
Minor coastal flooding is possible with the Sunday morning high tide, mostly along the Atlantic Coast, Delaware Bay, and the tidal Delaware River. Localized moderate flooding is possible along the oceanfront and on the back bays.
Strong winds behind the storm late Sunday through Monday will lead to hazardous conditions over the waters for mariners and localized power outages on adjacent shores.
