New York Metro Weather
Winter Storm Advisory
8:00 PM Friday December 25, 2009

...This is not an official National Weather Service product and should not
be confused for an official watch, warning or advisory...

In New York: Putnam, Orange, Rockland, Northern Westchester

In New Jersey: Sussex, Northern Passaic

In Connecticut: Litchfield, Northern Farfield, Northern New Haven

...Winter Storm Advisory remains in effect through Saturday Afternoon...



Update 8:00pm: Morris and Warren counties have been removed from
the Advisory as local OBS and reports show that surface temperatures
have generally warmed to less-support freezing rain. The advisory has 
been expanded to include Northern New Haven county in Connecticut.
The remainder of the discussion remains unchanged from this morning.


A strong storm system will develop across the Central United States
on Tuesday, and move northeastward towards the Great Lakes by Tuesday
Night. A high pressure over the region will move northeast, but cold
air will remain in the region during the beginning of precipitation.
Precipitation is expected to begin by tonight as the strong and broad
surface low meanders in the Central United States. Warm air will begin
to work in gradually, but the low levels of the atmosphere will remain
cold. The precipitation may actually start as snow, but will then begin to
quickly change to rain as the middle levels of the atmosphere are
warmed to above freezing. The lower levels of the atmosphere, nearer
to the ground, will remain cool enough to support freezing rain and
a build up of ice across the area. This will create very slippery and

hazardous conditions once precipitation begins.

This evening, the freezing rain is expected to continue for a period
before the lower levels finally warm above freezing and melting occurs, with
plain rain falling across all of the area. That said, before this occurs, 
ice accumulations of 0.25 to 0.40 inch are possible. This is especially
likely furthest north and west--nearer to Orange County and Litchfield
County. Elsewhere, 0.05 to 0.25 inch accumulations are more likely.

Still, the travel impact will be heavy. Ice is dangerous and freezing rain
creates significant travel difficulties. Please remain abreast of the
situation and drive carefully on the holiday. Pleasestay tuned for more 
updates and safety information.

...A winter storm advisory means that snow, sleet, or freezing rain will
cause travel difficulties or hazards. Travel may become extremely
hazardous for periods of time. Visibilities may be lowered. Exercise
caution if you must travel during the storm. Stay tuned for more updates...