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- In Northeast Pennsylvania and south-central New York, some areas reported snowfall totals of up to a foot.
- Meteorologists caution that early snowfall does not predict the rest of winter.
- Cleveland saw its first snow during a football game on Thursday.
Snowfall in the Eastern U.S.
The eastern U.S. witnessed its first snowfall of the season on Thursday and Friday. Snowflakes reached as far south as North Carolina’s mountains. This change followed a period of mild fall weather.
In Northeast Pennsylvania and south-central New York, some areas reported snowfall totals of up to a foot. The National Weather Service confirmed significant accumulation, especially in higher elevations.
Early Snowfall Insights
Meteorologists caution that early snowfall does not predict the rest of winter. Jim Steenburgh, an atmospheric scientist, noted that the link between early snow and winter snowfall is weak. Another expert, Judah Cohen, also stated that early snow is not a reliable indicator of a snowy winter.
Blizzard Conditions in West Virginia
Cleveland saw its first snow during a football game on Thursday. AccuWeather predicted 6-12 inches of snow in parts of western Maryland and southwestern Pennsylvania by Friday. West Virginia experienced a blizzard warning, with expected additional snow accumulations of 9 to 14 inches and wind gusts up to 50 mph.
North Carolina’s First Significant Snow
Western North Carolina received its first major snowfall this week. Snowfall was likely to reach 2-3 inches in lower elevations and up to 8 inches in isolated areas on ridgetops.
Winter Weather Forecast
Federal forecasters predict warmer-than-average temperatures across most of the southern U.S. this winter. They expect less rain and snow for large parts of the southern tier and the East Coast, which could lead to drought conditions.
Overall, while snow has appeared early this season, the broader winter outlook leans towards milder conditions for many regions.