Winter Weather Forecast: Preparing for a Week of Snow and Cold Temperatures

Winter is settling in with a mix of snow showers, dropping temperatures, and gusty winds. This week’s forecast shows a clear shift from partly sunny skies to a series of snow events and cold nights. Preparing for these changes can help you stay safe, comfortable, and ready for whatever the weather brings. Here’s what to expect and how to get ready.

Snow-covered street with light snowfall

What the Week Looks Like

The week starts with mild conditions but quickly turns colder and wetter:

• Today: Partly sunny with a high near 29°F and calm winds. A calm evening follows with mostly cloudy skies and a low around 11°F.

• Sunday: Clouds increase with a 30% chance of showers after 1 p.m. Temperatures rise to near 38°F. Winds remain calm but shift to southeast at about 6 mph in the afternoon.

• Sunday night: Showers become steady with a 100% chance of precipitation. Expect between half and three-quarters of an inch of rain or snow. Temperatures drop to around 34°F with southeast winds at 6 to 10 mph.

• Monday: Showers continue with a high near 46°F. Winds pick up from the south at 10 to 16 mph, gusting up to 28 mph, then shift west in the afternoon. Precipitation chance is 90%.

• Monday night: Snow showers arrive with a low near 18°F. Breezy conditions continue with a 90% chance of snow.

• Tuesday: Snow showers persist with a high near 25°F and breezy winds. Chance of snow is 80%.

• Tuesday night: Snow showers likely after 1 a.m., mostly cloudy with a low around 20°F. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

• Wednesday: Snow showers continue with a high near 30°F and an 80% chance of snow.

• Wednesday night: Snow showers likely with mostly cloudy skies and a low near 16°F. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

• New Year’s Day: Snow showers likely with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 25°F. Chance of snow is 60%.

• Thursday night: A chance of snow showers with mostly cloudy skies and a low near 10°F. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

• Friday: A chance of snow showers with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 21°F. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

  
  

This pattern shows a clear trend toward colder temperatures and increasing snow chances as the week progresses.

How to Prepare for the Changing Weather

With this forecast, preparation is key. Here are practical steps to stay safe and comfortable:

Home Preparation

• Check heating systems to ensure they are working efficiently before the coldest nights.

• Insulate pipes to prevent freezing, especially with lows dropping near 10°F.

• Stock up on essentials like food, water, and medications in case travel becomes difficult during snow showers.

• Clear gutters and drains to avoid ice dams and water backup when snow melts.

• Prepare snow removal tools such as shovels and ice melt for sidewalks and driveways.

  
  

Vehicle Readiness

• Inspect tires for proper tread and consider snow tires if you expect to drive in heavy snow.

• Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid fuel line freeze-up.

• Pack an emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, snacks, and a first aid kit.

• Check windshield wipers and fluid to maintain visibility during rain and snow.

  
  

Personal Safety Tips

• Dress in layers to stay warm and dry. Include waterproof outerwear for snow showers.

• Limit outdoor activities during heavy snow and high winds to avoid accidents.

• Be cautious on roads as snow and ice can create slippery conditions.

• Stay informed by checking weather updates regularly, especially for changes in precipitation chances.

  
  

Snow-covered tree branches with snowflakes falling

Understanding the Impact of Snow and Cold

Snow showers and cold temperatures affect daily life in many ways:

• Travel delays are common as roads become slick and visibility drops.

• Power outages can occur due to heavy snow or ice on power lines.

• Health risks increase with exposure to cold, including frostbite and hypothermia.

• School and work schedules may change due to weather conditions.

  
  

Planning ahead helps reduce these impacts. For example, arranging remote work or school days during the heaviest snow can keep everyone safe.

Staying Ahead of the Weather

Weather can change quickly, especially in winter. Here are ways to stay ahead:

• Use weather apps with alerts for your area.

• Follow local news for updates on road conditions and closures.

• Have a backup plan for travel and childcare if weather worsens.

• Keep emergency contacts handy, including local shelters and utility companies.

  
  

Snow-covered road with tire tracks

Final Thoughts

This week’s forecast calls for a transition from mild to cold with increasing snow showers and gusty winds. Preparing your home, vehicle, and personal safety measures will help you handle the challenges ahead. Stay informed, dress warmly, and plan your activities around the weather to stay safe and comfortable through the snow and cold temperatures.