December is here, and so is the start of meteorological winter. With temperatures already feeling wintry, here’s what to expect as the month unfolds, according to Matt Noyes (see the video for full details, of course!):
The jet stream is dipping into the eastern United States, delivering colder-than-normal air to New England for the first half of the month. Average highs in Boston hover around 42°F with lows near 29°F this time of year, but even early December looks set to stay below that this year, meaning a true winter feel.
With the colder air firmly in place, any precipitation during the first half of December has the potential to deliver snow. Clippers—moisture-starved but energetic systems—will bring quick hits of snow, especially to northern New England. Additionally, some mountain enhancement could boost snow totals in higher elevations.
The big question for the second half of the month lies thousands of miles away in Siberia. Will the intense cold there release and spill toward Alaska, allowing Arctic air to flood New England, or will it stay locked in place?
While December typically sees 4.3 inches of precipitation in Boston (rain and melted snow), it may be tough to meet that average this year. Even with a stormy jet stream pattern, the core of storm development may sit just too far east for frequent coastal storms.
Stay ahead of the latest changes with updates in our free Noyes’ 1DegreeOutside Weather app, featuring the 14-day forecast, radar, and insights tailored to your location.
