Arctic Clipper Brings Light Snow Potential to the Triad
A swift-moving storm system, originating from the Midwest, is set to sweep through the Piedmont region late Monday night. Dubbed an “Arctic Clipper,” this system could bring brief periods of flurries and light snow, though its overall impact is expected to remain minimal.
Persistent Weather Pattern
Over the weekend, a trough of low pressure established itself over maritime Canada and the Eastern U.S., creating a steady flow of cold, west-northwest air from northern latitudes. This setup allowed arctic air from central Canada to funnel unimpeded into the interior U.S., extending as far south as the Carolinas. Small disturbances within this cold flow, known as short waves, have triggered occasional snow showers along the Appalachian slopes.
Meet the Alberta Clipper
These fast-moving storm systems, commonly called “Alberta Clippers,” are characterized by shallow cold air pools and limited moisture. Typically, they deposit snow on western mountain slopes while leaving eastern areas with clear skies. The lack of significant upper atmospheric support often keeps clippers from producing widespread precipitation.
A Slightly Different Storm Behavior
This particular clipper might deviate from the norm. As it moves into the mountains, support from upper-level winds could enhance its strength, potentially enabling some snowfall to develop east of the mountains. While temperatures will be cold enough for snow, several factors are expected to keep accumulations minimal.
Snow Timing and Areas Affected
- When? Snowfall, if it occurs, will likely begin around 11 p.m. Monday and taper off by 3 a.m. Tuesday. Most residents will already be indoors, minimizing immediate travel disruptions.
- Where? The southwestern Piedmont and western Carolinas are the most likely areas to see snowfall. Southern Triad regions could experience light snow, while northern areas might miss out entirely.
Limiting Factors
- Dry Air: The cold and dry atmosphere may cause lighter snow to evaporate before reaching the ground.
- Duration: Snowfall is expected to last no more than an hour or two, reducing the chance of significant accumulation.
- Track: The storm’s current path favors areas to the southwest, leaving some northern counties with little to no precipitation.
What to Expect
Although snow in the Triad is an exciting prospect, this system is unlikely to deliver more than a light dusting, if that. Many areas might not see any snow at all. However, those in affected regions could wake up to a slight coating of snow on the ground.
Impact on Tuesday Morning Travel
With temperatures dropping into the low 20s early Tuesday, any snow that falls could create slick road conditions. This may lead to minor travel disruptions and potential school delays. Residents should exercise caution during the morning commute and monitor local updates.
While the clipper’s snowfall potential is modest, its arrival underscores the persistence of wintry conditions in the region.