A storm that was originally forecast to bring a bit of pre-Thanksgiving rainfall to Lincoln County is now forecast to dump up to 12 inches of heavy wet snow on the area beginning early Wednesday morning and continuing through the day, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The NWS warns of 6-12 inches of accumulation with the heaviest snowfall coming for the mid-day hours. Winds out of the northeast should have a sustained velocity of 10-15 mph with gusts to 30 mph, according to the NWS.
It should be noted that the NWS forecast is not in agreement with forecasts offered by other established sources, including Intellicast.com, the Weather Channel and some local broadcasters. Other forecasts are calling for only several inches of accumulation, if any at all, and are calling for a wintry mix or rain as the precipitation types. These forecasts seem supported by daytime high temps forecast in the high 30’s and ocean temps holding at 50 degrees (Fahrenheit).
Local broadcasters are calling for 3 to 8 inches of accumulation along the coast, with higher totals inland. The WCSH Channel 6 weather team is exclusively calling for snowfall rates of 1-3 inches per hour.
So, it’s safe to say that while this storm needs watching, a precise forecast is still in development. Of course, The Lincoln County News online will continue to follow the progress of this event, and keep readers posted on any developments.
Those who need to travel on Wednesday should consider adjusting their schedule to travel Tuesday night or Wednesday afternoon or evening, based on the present range of forecasts. Fortunately for those who travel on Thanksgiving Day, all forecasters agree that the weather should clear out by Wednesday night and Thursday should be bright and sunny.
The Winter Storm Warning that was issued by the NWS Tuesday morning and begins at midnight remains in effect until 6 p.m. Wednesday.
