Much of the East Coast is now under a broad weather alert as multiple Alberta Clippers may bring pop-up snowstorms every other day from Sunday, December 7, through Friday, December 13, according to early weather guidance. The trend might cause traffic problems in New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and parts of the southern East Coast.
Several fast-moving disturbances from the Great Lakes will be guided into the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic by a persistent northwest-flow trend, according to the National Weather Service. Known as the “Clipper Express,” these systems often trigger heavy snowfall, strong winds, and rapid temperature changes.
The first system is predicted to arrive Saturday night, with more disturbances forecast every 48 hours. Snowfall totals are unknown, but the NWS advises that sudden bursts could cause hazardous roadways from Maine and Massachusetts to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and parts of North Carolina.
According to forecasters, the trajectory of each clipper will decide where snow develops. Snow bands may occur more frequently in northern areas, including Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and upstate New York. During commutes in Mid-Atlantic states such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware, there may be short spurts. Depending on the system’s strength, coastal areas such as Long Island and southeastern New England may experience brief flurries.
Major highways, including I-95, I-84, I-90, and I-81, may experience unexpected vision loss, blowing snow, and slick pavement from December 7 to 13.
The NWS advises residents along the Eastern Seaboard to check for frequent updates because Alberta Clippers frequently change their track and strength with little notice.