US braces for snow, and possible polar vortex storms

The US is in for a winter of contrasts, as AccuWeather experts forecast a dramatic tug-of-war between cold and mild air, with storms and snow on the horizon.

While the first week of December brought a chill to the Central and Eastern states, it appears that the weather will flip as the month progresses, with milder conditions expected to thaw parts of the country.

AccuWeather's long-range expert, Paul Pastelok, said that by mid-December, the weather will shift, bringing warmer temperatures to the central and eastern US.

Meanwhile, the West will see rain and mountain snow as Pacific storms roll in. "We are favouring heavier rain and snow in the Pacific Northwest and occasionally Northern California," Pastelok added.

Looking ahead to the holidays, a more turbulent pattern may emerge. “There’s potential for colder conditions to return in the Northeast, Great Lakes, and Midwest during the week of Christmas,” said Pastelok.

Skiers should expect more snow across the West, making it an ideal holiday season for winter sports.

As 2024 ends, the weather will intensify, particularly in the West, where powerful storms are forecast. Southern California could also see some rain as storms move in from the south.

However, drought conditions will persist in the Southwest and Plains, with storms staying north of these regions for most of the winter.

A milder January thaw is expected to ease heating bills in the East, but it may also negatively impact ski resorts, which will rely on artificial snow to maintain their slopes.

Florida is expected to enjoy warmer-than-average temperatures, making it a popular winter destination.

February, however, could bring another twist with the potential return of the polar vortex, which may push cold air into the East and extend winter conditions into early spring.

"Late January and February could see snowstorms, particularly in the Northeast," said Pastelok. The storms may focus on the Pacific Northwest and northern Rocky Mountains, although the West is expected to have less widespread rainfall than in January.