Chilly December Start, Warmer Weather Ahead
Climatological Perspective
December has gotten off to a very chilly start, with high temperatures 5 to 10 degrees below average every day. Morning lows have been at or below freezing in Central Park. While this may not be ideal for those who prefer warmer winter days, there is hope on the horizon.
Warmer Weather on the Way
A warm front is expected to bring a surge of seasonable air into the region on Sunday, bringing temperatures back to normal. It won’t be warm by summertime standards, but it will certainly feel warm compared to this past week.
Snow Showers and Rain Ahead
The warm front is expected to slide through late Saturday night, potentially sparking some light snow showers in the cold air ahead of it. Accumulations will be under an inch, but if you live in the Catskills, Poconos, or Capital District, it may be enough to freshen up your current snowpack. However, the snow will be gone quickly, especially with rain in the forecast.
Rainy Week Ahead
The warm weather will last for most of the coming week, with our best rain chances coming between Monday and Wednesday. Light rain is expected on Monday, with a few sprinkles or scattered showers possible on Tuesday. Wednesday looks like the wettest day of the week, with steadier, heavier rain ahead of a cold front.
Drought Relief
In total, we expect to get 1 to 2 inches of rain area-wide, which is much-needed to help offset our ongoing drought. Our current rain deficit since September is still well over half a foot, so we need much more rain than what we will get next week to erase the drought.
Conclusion
While December may have started off chilly, warmer weather is on the way. Enjoy the snow while it lasts, and get ready for a stretch of warm winter weather that will bring much-needed rain to the region.
FAQs
Q: How cold has it been in Central Park this month?
A: High temperatures have been 5 to 10 degrees below average every day, and morning lows have been at or below freezing.
Q: When can I expect warmer weather?
A: A warm front is expected to bring a surge of seasonable air into the region on Sunday, bringing temperatures back to normal.
Q: Will it snow this weekend?
A: Yes, light snow showers are possible in the cold air ahead of the warm front, with accumulations under an inch.
Q: How much rain can I expect this week?
A: We expect to get 1 to 2 inches of rain area-wide, with the heaviest rain expected on Wednesday.
