March 11, 2016

MOUNTAIN WEATHER FORECAST

Time and Day: 0630 Friday

The Snapshot: 2” of snow fell overnight.  Mixed rain and snow showers with gusty easterly winds today. Temperatures begin to cool through the weekend with snow throughout.  Signs of spring are lurking in the long range models.

The Science:  Bands of moisture will continue to track through the region for the next 24-36hrs.  Freezing levels will be around 4500’ so a mixture of precipitation types can be expected. A more organized system will swing through on Sunday afternoon for a good chance of measurable snow heading into Monday.   

The Long Range:  The Gulf of Alaska low-pressure system that has been causing this prolonged storm cycle is showing signs of weakening early next week.  High pressure along the California Coast is also expected to build north as well.  If these two features continue their trend, it will bring an end to this stormy period with dry and warmer weather expected by the middle of next week.

Precipitation Ending at 4am:

Today 24hr water = .25 -.5 Snow = 1-3

Tomorrow’s 24hr water = .25-.5  snow = 2-4

Trend and Timing:
Light mixed rain and snow showers begin this afternoon and will continue through early Sunday morning.  


24hr temperature ending at 4 am tomorrow: 
                                     
Low: 24    High: 32
Freezing level: +-4500.'

Trend and Timing:   
Freezing levels will fluctuate between 4000’ and 5000’ through early tomorrow morning.   East flow will help hold surface temperatures near or just below freezing.

 
24hr Winds (mph) ending at 4 am tomorrow:
Base:  5-10 E
Ridge Top: 5-10 E shifting SW

Trend and Timing:
Gusty easterly winds this morning will diminish this afternoon.  Upper-level winds shift southwesterly tonight.  




jM

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