Winter's Mix: What to Expect Today

You can prepare yourself for a day of mixed precipitation. Yesterday, a cold snap set temperatures to the low teens. This morning, skies are covered, and snow is heading coastward. It might already be falling where you are. In the Boston area, expect flakes to begin between 9 and 10 o'clock. Why is this happening? Warm air collides with cold, creating what meteorologists call "overrunning". This forces the warm air to rise, forming clouds and eventually, precipitation. First, it snows when it is cold enough from the clouds to the ground but eventually, it will turn into sleet and freezing rain when a warmer layer is introduced. Where will it be worst? Areas west and north of Boston will stay below freezing. People on Cape Cod and nearby islands will see temperatures rise above freezing and less snow. The precipitation will also likely turn to rain before ending the day. When will it be worst? The worst conditions for traveling and buildup will be between 10 in the morning and 3 o'clock in the afternoon. After that, any precipitation will be minimal. Temperatures may drop slightly to just under 30 overnight. This winter weather mix won't be as bad as you might think, so why is this important? People may be tempted to stay inside all day. But the best time to go out, is early in the morning and stay until late afternoon. Most of the snow will accumulate in a small three to four hour window from about 9 a. m. until noon or 1 p. m. If you go out in the afternoon. You may find treated roads safe in the afternoon. However, it's important to keep in mind that untreated roads and walkways could accumulate a light coating of glaze. In the evening, precipitation ends. This is all expected to happen between 3 PM and 5 PM. Take care on your travels. If you are a student, then keep in mind that you still have school but if you need to be out and about, then use caution. This is especially true for high elevations and north of the Mass Pike. The next storm is on Saturday night. Look for more details in the coming days to see if it will be another snowy day.