1/29 AM Zone 4/5 (Coastal NJ): Clipper snows scrape the shore

A weak low pressure system, developing as a result of mid and upper level energy int he atmosphere surging southeastward from Canada, will develop off the coast of New Jersey on Monday morning. Forecast models have struggled with the exact track, intensity and location of the low pressure as it develops, leading to considerable forecast uncertainty over the next 12 to 24 hours. However, better agreement recently has increased confidence in impacts.

The low pressure system is developing from what is called a “clipper” system, or a piece of fast moving energy that drives southeastwards from Canada and then quickly moves out to sea or back northwards towards its origin. These storms can sometimes develop more rapidly and deepen if the energy is slower or more intense — but that is not the case here. However, a low pressure system will still develop offshore, and the juxtaposition of moisture and lift in the atmosphere will lead to the potential for bands of snow in the region on Monday morning.

These bands are likely to move into the area from late Sunday Night into Monday morning, with snow over Southeast and parts of Central NJ during the morning commute. Bands will begin to congeal towards a more organized band near the shore on Monday morning, with the potential for a period of moderate snow in Southeast NJ as the low pressure system begins to develop and strengthen off the coast.

The event will be rather quick, wrapping up by afternoon on Monday with snow ending from west to east. Still, the bands of snow could be impactful for a period of time, leaving light snow accumulations throughout these zones and in particular across Southern and Eastern portions of these zones and the state of NJ.

As a result, the NWS has posted Winter Weather Advisories for the potential accumulation of 1 to 3 inches of snow. These advisories are relegated to South and Eastern portions of New Jersey.

Stay tuned over the next few hours