THEWEATHERMOGIL:: Stormy weather across the Eastern U.S.
There is a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes across North Carolina this afternoon and evening. From southeast Virginia into South Carolina there is a lesser risk of severe weather, but severe storms are still possible (Fig. 1). Already today, Feb. 24, 2016, there have been 44 severe weather reports (mostly high winds) since 7:00 a.m. E.S.T. This is on top of some 142 severe weather reports (including 35 tornadoes) from 7:00 a.m. E.S.T. Tues, Feb. 23, 2016, until 7:00 a.m. E.S.T. on Wed., Feb 24, 2016.
A very strong low-pressure system is currently marching up the western side of the Appalachians and will be located near Cleveland, OH, by this evening. The storm is “huge,” covering almost the entire eastern half of the U.S. This radar image from late morning shows the overall extent of the storm system (Fig. 2).
Ahead of the storm (east side) counterclockwise winds are bring warm and humid air northward. Temperatures and dew points are in the mid to upper 60’s across much of eastern North Carolina and parts of southeast Virginia early this Wednesday afternoon. When coupled with high speed, diffluent/divergent winds at high altitudes, the stage is set for strong thunderstorms, some with severe weather and locally heavy rainfall.
Across parts of Florida, some locally heavy thunderstorms, along with possible severe weather, are also on tap.
On the western flank of the storm, heavy snow and possible blizzard conditions are anticipated across parts of Indiana, Illinois and Michigan.
Elsewhere across the eastern part of the U.S. windy conditions will be the rule until later Thursday evening.
In short, almost any weather condition is showing itself across the eastern U.S. today (Fig. 3).
© 2016 H. Michael Mogil
Originally posted 2/24/16