A developing winter storm named Enzo is set to unleash a stripe of snow and ice across the South and Southeast early this week, creating hazardous travel conditions in areas that rarely see such wintry weather, especially near the Gulf Coast. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm alerts spanning from central and eastern Texas to parts of Georgia, including cities like Houston, New Orleans, Tallahassee, and portions of the Atlanta metro area. These alerts signify the potential for snow, ice, and wind to combine, resulting in perilous conditions. The forecast warns of snow- and ice-covered roads and the possibility of power outages.
To delve deeper into the upcoming winter storm, let's take a day-by-day look at its trajectory. While much of the storm is projected to taper off by Wednesday morning, some snow and ice may linger in northeast Florida and the coastal Carolinas. However, it's crucial to note that forecast uncertainties may lead to changes in the predicted snowfall amounts.
The configuration of this snow and ice threat reflects a common pattern as we transition through late January into the latter half of the winter season. A widespread arctic air mass is dominating much of the central and eastern U.S., extending well into the Deep South. This influx of cold air is the primary element required to generate snow and ice events along the Gulf Coast. Concurrently, a weak low-pressure system over the Gulf of Mexico will assist in uplifting moisture northward into the region, resulting in snow and ice formation.
Jonathan Belles, a seasoned meteorologist and writer for The Weather Channel for eight years, is instrumental in producing weather videos for The Weather Channel en español. With a penchant for tropical weather, high-impact weather coverage, and winter storms, Belles is a double graduate of Florida State University and St. Petersburg College.
As the developing winter storm approaches, preparations are underway from Houston to Atlanta and Tallahassee, anticipating a rare winter event that could bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain to the southern U.S. FOX Forecast Center predicts measurable snowfall in cities unaccustomed to winter conditions, with the potential for an inch or more in major cities across Texas, the Florida Panhandle, and the Carolinas.
The arctic high preceding the winter storm will introduce cold temperatures to the region before the system takes hold. What sets this event apart is the positioning of the arctic high, which won't be far enough south to push moisture offshore. As an upper-level disturbance migrates from the Plains toward the Gulf Coast, a low-pressure area will develop over the Gulf of Mexico, drawing moisture northward and linking up with the cold air, setting the stage for wintry precipitation.
The forecast projects snow accumulations ranging from 1-3 inches in many Gulf Coast states, with localized higher amounts in East Texas, central Louisiana, and western Mississippi. As the low-pressure system strengthens, warm air influxes over the Southeast, leading to sleet and potential ice accretions in the Florida Panhandle and parts of southern Georgia.
Winter Storm Watches and Warnings have been issued for several states across the South and Southeast, with major cities like Austin, San Antonio, Houston, New Orleans, and Atlanta on alert for significant impacts, including power outages and travel disruptions. Flight operations at Bush International and Hobby International airports in Houston are slated to halt ahead of the storm, urging individuals to delay travel if possible and exercise caution on the roads.
With the potential for icy conditions and heavy snowfall looming over the region, residents are advised to stay informed, prepare accordingly, and adhere to safety measures to navigate the wintry blast safely and mitigate any adverse impacts on daily life and travel plans. Stay tuned for updates and follow local weather advisories to stay ahead of the storm's progression.
