PITTSBURGH — It’s that time of the year again when thoughts and preparations for winter begin.
Winter is a season that has major impacts on Pittsburghers’ lives at work and at home and on the economy as a whole. So what does it have in store this time around?
"We're in the midst of a strong El Nino," Severe Weather 11 Chief Meteorologist Stephen Cropper said. "Typically, that sets us up for a warmer and drier winter season, but the world of weather is not a one-size fits all."
The timing of any snow is critical to its impact. Four inches of snow after the evening commute had a very different effect than if it falls around sunrise, especially when it comes to delaying or closing school.
Severe Weather 11 Meteorologist Scott Harbaugh talked to Chartiers Valley Superintendent Dr. Brian White, who's familiar with how the timing impacts the decision to delay or cancel classes.
“There's a difference between a couple inches of snow in the evening versus in the morning,” he said. “You have to weigh it all.”
New this year, Severe Weather Team 11’s “Instant Alert” will get watches, warnings and other weather threats to viewers faster than ever before, which could be important because Cropper said the area could be in for a roller coaster ride this winter.
“This year, a combination of factors will lead to a snowy winter, but less frigid than last year. I'm looking at 49 inches of snow total,” Cropper said. “A couple of bigger snow storms will dump more than 6 inches, thanks to a southern jet stream. Remember February 2010? Four feet of snow in one month! That was an El Nino year.”
Below is Cropper’s breakdown of each month:
November: The milder weather of fall will continue into early winter. November will be the warmest month as cold air stays locked up north with 3 inches of snow.
December: By December, the first polar vortex/Arctic air of the season will show up with the best chance for a bigger storm near the end of the month. Temperatures will end up being warmer than normal with 7 inches snow.
January: In January, things will get more active with a steadier stream of cold air connecting with moisture-rich storms from the south and 13 inches snow.
February: February will be the coldest and stormiest month with a major shot of Arctic air likely. Southwestern Pennsylvania will see 18 inches of snow with below normal temperatures.
March: A cold start to spring looks likely with the winter storm threat through mid-March. Eight inches of snow and above normal temperatures are expected.
WPXI
