What a difference 24 hours makes in central Maryland and much of the Mid-Atlantic. Over 200+ severe weather reports including several tornadoes followed up by bitter cold and even snow some snow flurries. Friday brought on a spring-time setup in the dead of winter as air-masses clashed for what was the perfect storm to get unexpected severe weather going across the area. As forecasters we missed the boat big time on this one.
Luckily in the 5 tornadoes that hit the area no one was injured nor any fatalities were reported. This was thanks to prompt warning and timing of the event during the early morning hours Friday. Overall this will be an event that we can learn from and improve upon based upon the circumstance of February 7th, 2020.
The same storm system ushered in colder air, upslope snows in the western Maryland mountains, and even a few passing snow flurries in Baltimore's northern and western suburbs. Saturday started with sunshine but clouds continue to increase as a weak piece of energy rolls on in. Snow flurries are possible once again north and west of Baltimore with a light dusting over the western Maryland mountains. Highs today popped into the low 40s with overnight lows back down around 30 degrees.
If we can get some breaks in those clouds above tonight we may have a shot to see the "Full Snow Moon" which officially turns full at 2:33AM EST Sunday morning. Skies start to clear again Sunday with sunshine returns and southerly breezes bringing in warmer air. Highs will punch close to 50 degrees if not over the mark before clouds return late. Once again we are hoping these clouds can hold off for another sky event above Maryland with the rocket launch out of Wallops Island, Virginia at 5:39pm February 9th, 2020. Even warmer air expected Monday and Tuesday with highs in the 50s as well as another front entering the area.
This front looks to stall Tuesday just to our south keeping rain chances in play through late week. Right now Monday and Wednesday look to be the driest before the front heads further south Valentine's Day. A shower could start your holiday with that special person but no need to cancel the plans just yet. We have 6-7 days for this forecast to change.
Long term trends over the next 8-14 days continue to paint a vivid picture of limited winter with above average temperatures and precipitation. A pattern more reminiscent of Spring which is only 41 days away. Stay tuned!!!
