Most of the central and eastern United States has been void of any meaningful Arctic air so far this season. That is about to change by the middle and end of next week. While glancing blows of bitter air have draped the northern Lakes and upper New England, most systems have featured polar air and marginal cold. Most areas will moderate, again, this weekend into the middle of next week, before the big change arrives.

A fairly benign weather feature will zip through the middle and eastern areas of the United States this weekend. In its wake, return flow and moderation will occur. A quick surge in temperatures are likely, as a potent low develops in the Leeside/Four Corners region by the middle of the week. Affectionatley known as a "Panhandle Hooker", that storm will rapidly intensify and race for the western Lakes. Out in front, warmth, rain, and severe weather can be expected; However, behind the storm, a blast of Arctic air will commence.

The biggest question for next week is as follows: "Will I have a White Christmas?". For the mountains, Upper Plains, northern Lakes, Upper Midwest, and northern New England, yes. That is pretty common. For the central Plains, southern Lakes, lower Midwest, the Ohio Valley, and parts of the lower Mid-Atlantic, to perhaps northern Tennessee Valley, a lot will depend on the storm that emerges on Christmas Eve and Day. It is way too early for specifics, but with cold air pouring in, and the potential of a secondary wave forming, the chance is there. Stay tuned because this will likely become a "high impact" storm.

🥶 Forecast provided by: Joshua Ketchen