Meteorologist Sam Coplin

Haven’t put out a Northeast forecast in a while, but this one deserves all the attention it’s getting.

A powerful, possibly historic Nor’easter is in the process of developing. It will undergo rapid development, or “bombing” out - which is the explosive strengthening of a low pressure system.

The intensity of the snow for Coastal NJ, Metro NYC and SE New England will be extreme overnight tonight - possibly 3”+ an hour. That, in combination with winds will lead to blizzard like conditions for nearly 12 straight hours beginning this evening. There could even be some thundersnow!

Still, my forecast, especially for western areas, is a bit more “conservative” than other outlets. I think there is going to be a very tight gradient due to heavy banding setting up. In other words, in this storm, 10-20 miles may make a difference. Right now, as I see it:

Philly: 10-16”
NYC: 16-20”
Boston: 18-24”
Albany: 4-8” (for my old friends)

Again, based on where banding sets up these totals could be on the lower side.

Regardless if it’s 12” or 24”, for those from Philly to Boston this will be quite the storm.

The snow will be heavy and wet especially for southern and eastern areas, which can lead to widespread power outages as winds crank tonight. For all intensive and purposes, the Monday AM commute will be shut down. Expect improvement from south to north across the Northeast during the afternoon on Monday.

The good news? Unlike the January storm, temps turn milder within a few days…so cleanup will be aided by mother nature starting midweek.

Stay safe and try to enjoy this epic storm - these don’t happen all that often.

Apparently, my eyes have decided they need a little extra help! 🤓 I found out at the eye doctor that I need glasses for the first time, so I figured why not debut the new look on-air today?