Low pressure is rapidly deepening to our northeast this morning, as the significant storm system which pounded our area overnight with heavy rains and some snow (mainly north and west) is on its way out of the picture. As expected, heavy rain was the real story with this system as impressive atmospheric dynamics combined with tons of available moisture to set the stage for an extended period of heavy rain. In what would have typically been a classic track for a significant snowstorm in our area, the lack of any cold air in place before the system left snow lovers grasping for a few flakes as the system exited. Areas well north and west of the city, and with generally over 750 ft of elevation were still able to salvage a few inches of snow. The transition took longer to occur farther east, and no accumulations were observed near the city or in Northeast New Jersey. The weather on Thursday and through the remainder of the week will clear out, although winds will still be a bother especially Thursday morning. High temperatures will struggle into the mid 40's on Thursday, as the departing system draws in cold air. Although Friday could be a few degrees warmer, a new cold airmass moves in for Saturday and Sunday with highs in the 40's and low temperatures dropping into the 20's. Pictured right: Water vapor satellite imagery from early Thursday morning, showing the powerful storm system lifting to our north and east, and dry and more stable conditions moving towards our area. Click to enlarge (high resolution). 

Finally, some good news, our Forecast Beta page is up, running, and operational. Go check out your specific and detailed local forecast by clicking here and then clicking your location on the map. Otherwise, check out the forecast at a glance below for New York City.

THE FORECAST AT A GLANCE...

Today (Thursday): Sunny, but windy. High near 44. West winds 10 to 20 miles per hour, with some higher gusts possible.

Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low near 36. West winds 8 to 12 miles per hour.


Friday: Mostly cloudy early, then partly cloudy, with a high near 50. West-southwest winds around 5 to 10 miles per hour. 


Article written by JH. Published December 8th, 2011 at 3:27am. Looking for a forecast? Use our new Forecast Beta tool to see the latest forecast in your specific area for the upcoming end of the week and weekend, or view our Technical Forecast Discussion for the more serious weather enthusiasts. Also, check out our new Forecast Overview tab. For up to the minute details on forecasts, watches, warnings, and alerts, follow us on Twitter and Facebook.