The strong, frigid winds that have plagued us over the past few days are finally backing off. Wind gusts that reached up to 50 miles per hour are expected to diminish as we enter the weekend, providing much-needed relief. However, even with rising temperatures, the wind chill factor will make it feel significantly colder, especially during the night, dipping into the teens.
Looking ahead to Saturday, light snow is anticipated to bring some slick spots to the roadways. Although not a significant snow event, a layer of coating up to an inch may occur in untreated areas, making early morning travel potentially hazardous. Motorists should remain cautious, especially in elevated regions such as the Poconos and Catskills, where slightly heavier snowfall is likely.
The weather situation is dire in Southern California, where a high-end Red Flag Warning remains in effect. Gusty winds have contributed to the rapid spread of several wildfires, including the Palisades and Eaton fires, with gusts potentially reaching up to 70 miles per hour in mountain areas. Firefighters continue to work tirelessly in these challenging conditions, with poor air quality expected due to concentrated smoke drifting across Los Angeles and down the coast.
As we head into the weekend, WABC Chief Meteorologist Lee Goldberg provides an insightful look at the latest weather conditions. After several days of harsh winds, we can expect a significant decrease in wind speeds. Although temperatures hovered around freezing, the brisk winds made it feel much colder, prompting residents to bundle up. As Saturday approaches, light snow is forecasted, which may cause some slippery conditions especially in the morning hours. Meanwhile, Southern California is grappling with critical fire weather and updated warnings as firefighters battle intense blazes exacerbated by the persistent winds.
