US Weather Rollercoaster: From Deep Freeze to Record Highs Next Week

The United States, currently grappling with a severe winter storm, is expected to experience a remarkable shift towards warmer temperatures next week, according to the Climate Prediction Center. This “weather whiplash” is anticipated to bring above-average temperatures across the entire lower 48 states, reaching the 60s and 70s in some Southern areas.

However, the warmth comes with the potential for flooding due to heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt. The West Coast, South, and Ohio Valley/Appalachian regions are identified as the most vulnerable to flooding. In the West, a moisture plume over northern California is predicted to cause heavy rain, leading to localized flash flooding.

The Pacific Northwest also faces a flood risk, with warm rain expected on existing snow and ice. The South, from central and eastern Texas to western Tennessee, may see substantial rainfall, posing a flood threat even in drought areas. Alongside flooding concerns, warmer temperatures will mark a significant change for Southern residents.

Forecasters warn that the combination of warmer air and rain may melt the remaining snowpack in the South, the Midwest, and the Northeast. This warmer, more humid air flowing over significant snowpack could also result in fog and low clouds across the Midwest, South, and East.

While the shift to warmer temperatures may provide relief from the cold, the potential for flooding emphasizes the diverse and impactful nature of weather patterns across different regions of the country. Residents are advised to stay informed about local forecasts and prepare for possible flooding in vulnerable areas.