This Date in Weather History for February 3,2017 from weatherforyou.com

Weather History
For Friday,February 3,2017

 

 

 

 

1917 - Downtown Miami, FL, reported an all-time record low of 27 degrees. (David Ludlum)

1947 - The temperature at Tanacross, AK, plunged to a record 75 degrees below zero. (David Ludlum)

1987 - Wintry weather was confined to freezing drizzle and light snow in the northeastern U.S., and light rain and snow in the western U.S. (The National Weather Summary)

1988 - Arctic air continued to invade the central U.S. The temperature at Midland TX plunged from a record high of 80 degrees to 37 degrees in just three hours. Morning lows in the higher elevations of Wyoming were as cold as 38 degrees below zero. Heavy snow blanketed southwestern Colorado, with 16 inches reported at Steamboat Springs. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)

1989 - A winter storm brought heavy snow and high winds to the western U.S. Up to three feet of snow blanketed the Sierra Nevada of California, and buried parts of northeastern Washington State under three feet of snow in five days. High winds across Washington State reached 75 mph, with gusts to 105 mph. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)

1989 - Severe cold gripped the north central U.S. The morning low of 29 degrees below zero at Casper WY was a record for the month of February. Wisdom MT hit 53 degrees below zero. Missoula MT reported a wind chill reading of 85 degrees below zero. (The National Weather Summary)

1990 - Thunderstorms developing ahead of a cold front produced severe weather over the central Gulf coast states during the afternoon and evening hours. Thunderstorms spawned seven tornadoes in Alabama, including one which touched down north of Birmingham injuring fifteen people and causing nearly three million dollars damage. A tornado at Margaret injured eleven persons and caused a million dollars damage. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)

Millions to face storm impacts next week: Snow, rain, wind and severe weather to unfold

By Alex Sosnowski, AccuWeather senior meteorologist

February 2,2017, 2:50:56PM,EST

 

 Travel ranging from a routine daily commute to a cross-country venture could be affected by a significant storm in the central and eastern United States next week.

A major storm with drenching rain, ice, snow, gusty winds and the potential for severe weather is likely next week in the central and eastern parts of the nation.
During early next week, a storm will first take shape over the southern Plains then strengthen while traveling northeastward toward the Great Lakes.

How strong the storm becomes will determine the magnitude of wintry precipitation, wind and thunderstorms, as well as the extent of rain and warmth.
"At this early juncture, it appears the bulk of the storm will bring rain around the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes region on Tuesday and into Wednesday," according to AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok.
Around the lower Great Lakes, the storm could begin and end as a period of snow or a wintry mix.

From interior parts of the mid-Atlantic to northern New England, the forecast is less certain.
"If cold air holds its ground for a time, a significant amount of snow and ice can occur over interior locations of the Northeast," according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist John Gresiak.
"If cold air gives up easily, drenching rain will sweep rapidly northward, and there could be problems such as urban and poor drainage area flooding," Gresiak said.
The storm is likely to be strong enough to produce gusty winds around the Great Lakes spanning Tuesday through Thursday.

Since much of the lakes are free of ice, the wind and wave action could produce lake-shore flooding in some communities. Airline delays could also occur due to the gusty winds at the major hubs in the region.
On the northwestern flank of the storm, enough cold air will be present to allow all or mostly snow to fall from the foothills of the Rockies and parts of the central Plains to the Upper Midwest. Strengthening winds will likely cause blowing and drifting snow in this swath.
As the storm tracks toward the Great Lakes, warm and humid air will surge in across the South. The strength of the storm could be enough to spawn severe weather from the Gulf coast to perhaps as far north as the Ohio Valley and a portion of the mid-Atlantic coast during the period from Tuesday to Wednesday.
RELATED:
Groundhog Day 2017: Meteorologists, Phil predict 6 more weeks of winter lie ahead
Exploring the health benefits vs. hazards of humidifiers
AccuWeather Winter Weather Center
In the wake of the big storm, cold air will circulate from the northern Plains to much of the Atlantic coast during the second half of the week.
A possible second storm could impact areas from the Appalachians to the Atlantic coast. How much moisture remains as the cold air returns will determine whether or not a period of snow develops.

 

New bout of soaking rain, strong winds to target UK on Friday

By Eric Leister, AccuWeather meteorologist

February 2,2017, 1:34:01PM,EST

 

 

A new storm blasting into the United Kingdom to close out this week will unleash soaking rain and strong winds, with more unsettled weather to follow this weekend.
In the wake of the storm that produced gusts in excess of 50 mph (80 km/h) on Thursday, a new storm will quickly approach on Friday.
"Rain will spread from south to north across the U.K. on Friday into Friday night," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Kristina Pydynowski said, adding that the heaviest rain will spread across western areas.
Rainfall is not expected to be heavy enough to produce widespread flooding problems. However, localized amounts up to 25 mm (1 inch) could result in slower travel.
"Soaking rain will focus on Belfast on Friday night," Pydynowski said. "Drivers will face reduced visibility and a heightened risk of hydroplaning due to standing water."

As rain spreads northward across the southern U.K., winds will become stronger during the afternoon and evening hours of Friday with the greatest impacts across southern Wales and southern England.
"There will be a brief period of winds gusting between 40 and as high as 50 mph (65 to 80 km/h) across the south of England and Wales," AccuWeather Meteorologist Rob Richards said. "This includes London and Cardiff."
Such winds can cause sporadic tree damage, power cuts and minor travel delays.
Stronger winds will put the southern coast of England at greater risk for power cuts and disruptions to air and rail travel. Coastal flooding may also occur at high tide.
RELATED:
United Kingdom Weather Center
MinuteCast® for your location
Interactive United Kingdom weather radar
"The coastline will face more prolonged wind gusts of 50-60 mph (80-95 km/h) with isolated higher gusts," Richards said.
Gusts will generally be on the order of 30-40 mph (48-65 km/h) as the storm continues to track northward over Scotland on Saturday. Rainy spells, which will be wintry over the hills, will accompany the storm to start the weekend.
As quick as this storm departs, two more will be racing eastward from the Atlantic into France this weekend.

"The storms this weekend are expected to track into France far enough to the south that the southern U.K. should escape strong and damaging winds," Pydynowski said. "Rain should still spread across southern England, meaning those in London will want to grab a brolly before heading out for weekend plans."
If either storm tracks farther north, damaging winds could impact the region and result in a named wind storm.
So far this season there have been three named wind storms, although none were named during the month of January. The next name that will be given is Doris.
Temperatures will otherwise trend back to more seasonable levels for this weekend across the U.K. with mostly dry conditions anticipated for the Midlands.
Early next week, the storm track should press back to the north and a cold front will sweep through the U.K. with a spell of rain.
"This front will bring the risk of locally damaging winds with gusts exceeding 50 mph (80 km/h) to the western and northern U.K.," Pydynowski said.

Damaging winds to whip across France, Spain from Friday into Sunday

By Eric Leister, AccuWeather meteorologist

February 2,2017, 10:49:12PM,EST

 

A series of storms from the Atlantic will unleash multiple rounds of powerful winds to France, Spain and neighboring Portugal through the first weekend of February.
Locations across northern Spain, northern Portugal and western and central France will be at the greatest risk for travel disruption as powerful winds blast the region each day through Sunday.
The strongest winds will blast northwestern France through Friday before shifting southward. These winds will graze Paris later on Friday, producing gusts of 65 to 72 km/h (40 to 45 mph) and possibly resulting in some travel delays and isolated power outages.
Strong winds will also lash Madrid from Friday into Sunday. Gusts of 65 to 80 km/h (40 to 50 mph) are possible each day with higher gusts in the mountains to the north of the city.

In coastal locations in western France, northern Spain and northwestern Portugal, wind gusts could reach 130 km/h (81 mph) during the height of the storm. Winds of this magnitude can result in widespread power outages and damage to trees and homes.
"The winds can ground planes for a time and threaten to knock over high-profile vehicles," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Kristina Pydynowski said.
Along with the threat for damaging winds, wind-driven rain will pound the same communities each day.
Related:
France Weather Center
Western Europe Weather Radar
Spain Weather Center
The greatest threat for flooding will be across northern Portugal and northwestern Spain where rainfall totals of 75-150 mm (3-6 inches) will be common with local amounts exceeding 200 mm (8 inches).
Locations in western and central France can expect 25-75 mm (1-3 inches) of rain through Sunday, prompting localized flooding.

“These storms will also bring a high risk for coastal flooding, especially during high tide,” said AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys.
“Dangerous seas will also persist across the Bay of Biscay through Sunday with waves over 9 meters (30 feet) at times,” Roys added.
Additional unsettled weather is expected across France and Spain next week. However, the threat for damaging winds and flooding will lessen.

 

Exploring the health benefits vs. hazards of humidifiers

By Jennifer Fabiano, AccuWeather staff writer

February 2,2017, 9:05:10AM,EST

 

 Cold, dry winter air can be harmful to your body, and obvious effects like dry skin and eyes can be frustrating. However, less visible effects can be more than annoying; they can be dangerous.

Mucosal membranes, such as the nose and oral cavities, can become dry, which is harmful as that dries out “little hair-like cells called cilia, which are like little brooms that help sweep foreign invaders out,” said Dr. Clayton Cowl, chair of the Division of Preventive Occupational and Aerospace Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Foreign invaders are organisms like viruses, bacteria and dust mites.
Breathing dry air can irritate the respiratory track, leading to coughing, nasal congestion and stuffiness. For those with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, dry air can further dry out their oral pharynx, leading to exacerbated symptoms.
Home humidifiers can be an asset to those suffering from respiratory-type ailments.

(yocamon/iStock/Thinkstock)
“Humidifiers are a part of a variety of things that people can do to feel better and to potentially prevent upper respiratory infections," said Cowl.
However, those using humidifiers in their homes must do so with caution. Anything that affects breathing air must be monitored closely. When it comes to using humidification in your home, balance is key.
Air that is too humid can also be unsafe. Levels of humidification that are too high can cause additional breathing issues.
“Too much moisture inside a home is not good because it has higher rates of growth of things like dust mites,” said Cowl.
A high humidity rate in the home can also lead to mold growth.
“If you don’t take care and service [the humidifier], it’s essentially blowing fungal elements around a room that obviously you wouldn’t want.”
Hygrometers, devices that measure the relative humidity in a room, are the best way to make sure humidity levels in your home are safe.
Cowl recommends using the hygrometer to keep living spaces at 45 to 55 percent relative humidity for maximum comfort and safety.
RELATED:
6 unexpected ways winter affects your health
How to adjust your outdoor running routine when winter weather strikes
Hypothermia: How to spot and prevent this cold weather danger
The other important factor in humidity safety is to make sure that the machines are kept clean, as some humidifiers require daily cleaning. Cowl recommends strictly following manufacturer recommendations and changing filters as directed.
“If you don’t maintain a humidifier appropriately, and mostly that’s from neglect, if you don’t appropriately clean it, replace the water reservoir as directed, you can actually get fungal growth or mold in the units themselves,” said Cowl.
The water used in humidifiers is also an important factor. The use of water with large amounts of minerals in it can result in “microscopic amounts of calcium products that are spread over furniture or other areas inside a home if not maintained appropriately.”
Distilled or demineralized water is recommended to avoid this outcome.
In addition to portable humidifiers, there are some that are hard-wired into homes. It is equally important to clean these devices frequently.
“It’s important to have a regular maintenance schedule of things that are replaceable items in your HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system,” said Cowl.
With proper humidifier cleaning and maintenance, the health benefits reach as far as adding moisture to certain parts of the body that may need it during dry months.
“Humidifiers are great, they may provide additional comfort, but medically they’re not going to prevent infections,” said Cowl.

---

For more safety and preparedness tips, visit AccuWeather.com/Ready.

 

Groundhog Day 2017: Meteorologists, Phil predict 6 more weeks of winter lie ahead

By Jillian MacMath, AccuWeather staff writer

February 2,2017, 8:36:51AM,EST

 

Just after sunrise on Thursday, Punxsutawney Phil declared six more weeks of winter for the United States - a prognostication AccuWeather meteorologists largely agree with.

Though many Americans are longing for warmer weather, most of the country will be faced with weeks of wintry conditions.

In this Feb. 2,2016, photo, Groundhog Club handler John Griffiths holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather predicting groundhog, during the annual celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)

Across the Northeast, stormy weather is set to continue.
“There will be more rain than snow in the big East Coast cities,” AccuWeather Meteorologist Paul Pastelok said. However, the interior Northeast will have a higher chance for snow as temperatures remain below normal.
"As far as a significant warmup goes across the Northeast, I think you have to hold off til late April or early May," he said.
Cold air and snow will also persist in the Midwest, northern Plains and Northwest, enveloping nearly the entire northern tier of the country.
Northern and central California will see additional winter storms and rainfall. The abundant precipitation will continue to build a buffer for reservoirs in the coming months, Pastelok said.
RELATED:
Wave of cold air to settle over midwestern, northeastern US into the weekend
Spotty snow to brush Chicago to New York City, Boston this weekend
Stunning footage shows hundreds of ducks crowding around small opening on frozen lake
Meanwhile, wet weather will grip cities from the mid-Atlantic down to the Florida Panhandle.
The rest of Florida will mark the exception for the Southeast, as dry weather prevails between now and springtime.
The spring season will officially begin on March 20.
For more details on what to expect, check back for AccuWeather’s full 2017 spring forecast on Feb. 8.

Flooding rain, mountain snow to pound western US into the weekend

By Renee Duff, AccuWeather meteorologist

February 2,2017, 11:37:33AM,EST

 

 Travel disruptions will mount across the western United States as rain, snow and ice push inland into Saturday.

Waves of rain will crash onto the West Coast as a storm swirls offshore.
Following a burst of drenching rain over central and northern California into Thursday night, a second wave of rain will follow on Friday and continue into Saturday.

The rain will expand northward across the Oregon and Washington coasts.
The saturated nature of the soil will enhance the threat of localized flash flooding, especially across northern California.
“Localized flooding is anticipated to be most disruptive from Eureka to San Francisco, California, as well as at the foot of the higher terrain to the north and east of the San Joaquin Valley,” AccuWeather Meteorologist Faith Eherts said.
After the abundance of rain in January across California, any additional rainfall could cause high streams and reservoirs to spill over onto neighboring lands.
“As with other storms over the previous weeks, road closures and power outages will be possible as the threat of flash flooding, landslides and toppled trees returns,” Eherts said.

Motorists should prepare for slower-than-normal commute times and the potential for the necessity for an alternate route.
Little, if any, rain will reach as far south as Los Angeles and San Diego from the storm.
In addition to disruptions on the roads, airline delays are possible from San Francisco to Seattle due to a low cloud ceiling and rainy spells.
RELATED:
Interactive radar
How to create remarkable frozen bubbles in winter
Experts debunk 4 winter driving myths
In some areas just east of the Coast Ranges in Oregon and Washington, the rain will clash with stubborn cold air and cause a period of ice.
“As cold air remains trapped at the surface, the stage will be set for a prolonged period of freezing rain in Portland, Oregon, from Thursday night through Friday afternoon,” AccuWeather Meteorologist Kyle Elliott said.

Roads and sidewalks that appear wet can have a thin layer of ice on the surface.
A bit of freezing rain can extend as far south as Eugene, Oregon, and as far north as the hilly areas around Seattle into Friday morning.
“For those who must travel, be sure to reduce speeds on roadways as even the slightest bit of freezing rain on roadways greatly increases the risk for spin-outs and multi-vehicle accidents,” Elliott said.
Temperatures along this corridor are expected to rise above freezing by Friday night, when most areas will change over to rain.
Snow will pile up in feet from the Sierra Nevada northward to the Oregon and Washington Cascades and eastward to the Bitterroot and Teton mountains.
“Ski resorts in the northern Rockies and California have enjoyed plentiful snowfall already this season, with many places already seeing double their average seasonal snowfall,” Elliott said. “The additional snow will only add to the abundant snowpack already in place.”
Travel over the mountain passes will be dangerous, if not impossible, for a time. Some passes may close for a time due to the intensity of the snow.
There may be another opportunity for flooding rain and heavy snow along the West Coast late Sunday into Monday as another storm pushes ashore.

This Date in Weather History for February 2,2017 from weatherforyou.com

Weather History
For Thursday,February 2,2017

 

 

 

 

1952 - The only tropical storm of record to hit the U.S. in February moved out of the Gulf of Mexico and across southern Florida. It produced 60 mph winds, and two to four inches of rain. (2nd-3rd) (The Weather Channel)

1956 - A record snowstorm in New Mexico and west Texas began on Ground Hog's Day. The storm produced 15 inches of snow at Roswell NM, and up to 33 inches in the Texas Panhandle. (David Ludlum)

1987 - A fast moving arctic front brought snow and high winds to the north central U.S. Winds gusted to 69 mph at Brookings SD. Big Falls MN reported nine inches of snow. Record warmth was reported just ahead of the front. Burlington IA reported a record high of 59 degrees. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)

1988 - A dying low pressure system over southern California deluged the San Diego coastal mountains with more than four inches of rain causing half a million dollars damage. Arctic air invading the north central U.S. sent the mercury plunging to 38 degrees below zero at Park Rapids MN. Raleigh NC reported a record high of 75 degrees. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)

1989 - Bitter cold air covered much of the central U.S. Butte MT reported a wind chill reading of 91 degrees below zero, Salt Lake City UT was blanketed with 11.9 inches of snow in 24 hours, and winds around Reno NV gusted to 80 mph. Unseasonably warm weather continued in the southeastern U.S. Twenty-eight cities reported record high temperatures for the date, including Wilmington NC with a reading of 80 degrees. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)

1990 - Thunderstorms developing ahead of a cold front produced severe weather in the Lower Mississippi Valley during the late afternoon and evening hours. One person was injured in a tornado near Reidheimer LA. Thunderstorms northeast of Brandon MS produced hail three inches in diameter along with high winds which downed or snapped off one hundred trees. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)

2006 - New Orleans is struck by two tornadoes, collapsing at least one previously damaged house and battering Louis Armstrong International Airport. The Weather Doctor

2008 - Hilo, HI, is deluged by 10.82 inches of rain in a period of 24 hours, breaking the previous record set in 1969 by 3.5 inches. The Weather Doctor

2011 - A high temperature of 44°F registered at Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix, AZ, sets an all-time February record for the coldest high temperature for the city. The Weather Doctor

Snow may coat roads from Chicago to New York City this weekend

By Alex Sosnowski, AccuWeather senior meteorologist

February 1,2017, 4:24:03PM,EST

 

 A storm will produce a swath of wintry precipitation and slippery travel over parts of the midwestern and northeastern United States this weekend.

Fast steering winds will prevent the storm from bringing a heavy amount of snow, ice and rain. However, enough precipitation can occur to coat roads and sidewalks, including those in areas that have received little wintry precipitation thus far this winter.
Arctic air will settle eastward ahead of the storm. The cold air will allow roads and other exposed surfaces to be cold at the onset of the storm. As a result, at least some of the wintry precipitation will adhere to these surfaces from the Ohio Valley to part of the mid-Atlantic region on north.

"While a major storm with heavy snow and ice is highly unlikely, even a small amount of snow and ice can create dangerous conditions on area highways and cause delays at airports," according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Steve Travis.
Minor airline delays are possible at the major hubs due to deicing.
The wintry precipitation will take shape over parts of the central and northern Plains to middle and upper Mississippi Valley on Saturday.
During Saturday night and into Sunday, the system will progress eastward across the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes during Saturday night into Sunday.
During Sunday and into Sunday night, wintry precipitation will push from the central and northern Appalachians to the mid-Atlantic and New England coasts.
RELATED:
AccuWeather Winter Weather Center
Experts debunk 4 winter driving myths
Climate change isn't the only culprit behind massive ice shelf crack in Antarctica
Areas from Kansas City, Missouri, to near St. Louis, Cincinnati, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia are likely to receive a couple of periods of light snow, ice and rain.
"A small, slushy accumulation of snow is possible over parts of the Ohio Valley and a large part of the mid-Atlantic Interstate 95 corridor," Travis said.
A slippery, icy mix can extend as far south as the I-81 corridor in Tennessee, the I-77 corridor in Virginia and U.S. Route 13 in eastern Maryland.
Areas from much of Iowa to central Ohio, western Maryland and northern New Jersey on north are likely to receive all or mostly snow from the storm. The accumulation in this swath northward to the Canada border will generally range from a coating to an inch or two.
Light and sporadic snowfall will hit the cities of Minneapolis, Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, New York City and Boston.
In the wake of the storm, a brief push of cold air will follow, ahead of warmer conditions and the potential for a major storm next week.

 

How to create remarkable frozen bubbles in winter

By Brian Lada, AccuWeather meteorologist and staff writer

February 1,2017, 9:58:17AM,EST

 

 

Cold winter weather can lead to amazing spectacles, such as ice wheels in flowing rivers, boulders of ice on lakes and even caves made of ice.
While some formations like these can be rare to find in nature, others can be easy to make right in your backyard.

(matkovci/iStock/Thinkstock)
Blowing bubbles that turn into orbs of ice is a simple experiment that can be done at home when the weather is cold enough.
Those attempting to make frozen bubbles can use regular bubble solution or a homemade solution comprised of one part water, four parts dish soap and a dash of light corn syrup.
Regardless of which bubble solution is used, one more ingredient is needed and can be supplied by Mother Nature only.
RELATED LINKS
How do ice boulders form in lakes?
15 strange things that happen in cold weather
Experts weigh in: Do you need to warm up your car in cold weather?
For bubbles to freeze before they pop, temperatures need to be well below freezing. For the best results, temperatures should be in the single digits or below zero F.
It is possible for some ice to begin to form on bubbles when temperatures are in the lower 30s, 20s and teens; however, it will take longer for the ice to begin to form and the bubble may pop before the ice is noticeable.


Winds should also be calm when attempting this experiment as the wind causes bubbles pop quicker. Additionally, the wind can cause the bubbles to blow far away from you before they land and begin to freeze.
With the proper camera and ideal weather conditions, this experiment can create beautiful scenes on a cold winter day.

(raigna/iStock/Thinkstock)

(matkovci/iStock/Thinkstock)

(matkovci/iStock/Thinkstock)

Numerous storms to threaten southern UK with strong winds, rain through Sunday

By Eric Leister, AccuWeather meteorologist

February 1,2017, 9:41:08AM,EST

 

A series of storms will lash parts of Wales and England into the weekend.
If any of the storms are forecast to produce damaging winds, significant impacts to travel and power cuts, a name will be applied to the storm.
So far this season there have been three named wind storms, although none were named during the month of January. The next name that will be given is Doris.

The first storm will arrive on Thursday with spells of rain and strong winds throughout the United Kingdom.
Widespread wind gusts of 20-30 mph (32-48 km/h) are expected with gusts reaching 40 mph (65 km/h) in southwestern England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
A second storm will quickly approach, bringing more unsettled weather on Friday.
A dull start to the day is expected before the approaching storm brings increased wind and rain to southwestern England and southern Wales during the late morning.
Rain will spread across the rest of Wales and southern England during the afternoon, reaching Greater London late in the day.
Winds will become stronger during the afternoon and evening hours with the greatest impacts across southern Wales and southern England.
Widespread wind gusts of 30-40 mph (48-65 km/h) are expected with gusts reaching 50 mph (80 km/h) across the higher terrain and exposed coastal regions of Wales and southern England.
Greater London could have wind gusts near 40 mph (65 km/h) late in the afternoon and evening.
If this storm tracks farther north, stronger winds will impact the southern U.K. which could result in power cuts while also impacting rail and air travel.
RELATED:
United Kingdom Weather Center
MinuteCast® for your location
Interactive United Kingdom weather radar
Rainfall is not expected to be heavy enough to produce widespread flooding problems. However, localized amounts up to 25 mm (1 inch) could result in slower travel across Wales and southwestern England.
Another storm racing in from the Atlantic will bring a third round of rain and wind to the southern U.K. on Saturday.
The greatest impacts from this storm are expected across northern France; however, a period of heavy rain and gusty winds is expected across southern and southeastern England.
A fourth storm taking a similar track on Sunday will bring more rain and gusty winds to southern parts of the U.K.
While the worst impacts are currently expected across northern France, if either storm tracks farther north, damaging winds could impact the region and result in a named wind storm.

 

Rain may force closure of NRG Stadium roof on Super Bowl Sunday

By Kevin Byrne, AccuWeather staff writer

February 1,2017, 5:05:28PM,EST

 

 

Mild conditions along with the chance for showers will mark the days leading up to Super Bowl LI in Houston.

The New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons will square off at NRG Stadium to become Super Bowl champions. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. EST.
However, NRG Stadium features a retractable roof, so any inclement weather will not pose a threat to the quality or outcome of the game.

Even though the game will be sheltered, the week leading up to the Super Bowl features numerous events around the city. One of the biggest is Super Bowl LIVE, a free fan festival that will be held at Discovery Green, a 12-acre park in downtown Houston.
Those who are headed to Houston and are planning to spend time going to festivities around town should be prepared for some rain.
Temperatures on Friday and Saturday will settle near 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with evening temperatures dropping into the upper 60s. However, there will be the chance for some spotty showers each day, according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Mike Doll.

People pose for photos in front of NRG Stadium as preparations continue for the NFL Super Bowl 51 football game Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017, in Houston. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
"On Super Bowl Sunday, it will be warmer with clouds and sun and afternoon highs approaching 80," Doll said. "A few scattered showers will develop in the Houston area as well, which could potentially impact pre-game festivities and parties going on outdoors."
The NFL reportedly wants to keep the stadium roof open for the game, assuming the weather is suitable, according to the Associated Press.
RELATED:
NRG Stadium makes upgrades in preparation for Super Bowl
Houston's NRG Stadium to showcase its energy-efficient lighting during Super Bowl
Detailed Houston forecast
The league will not make a final decision on whether the roof will be open or closed until Saturday.
In order for the roof to be opened, typically temperatures must be below 78 and above 65, and there must be no rain in the forecast, CBS Houston reported.
“If the weather cooperates with us, which we hope it does, the roof will be open,” Eric Finkelstein, NFL director of events, told the AP.

 

Wave of cold air to settle over midwestern, northeastern US into the weekend

By Renee Duff, AccuWeather meteorologist

February 1,2017, 2:29:42PM,EST

 

 Winter’s chill will hold a firm grip on the midwestern and northeastern United States into the weekend.

The push of cold air reached the northern Plains on Tuesday and will continue to spill eastward during the first days of February.
For many areas from Minneapolis to Detroit to Boston, it will be the coldest stretch since early January.
Widespread highs in the teens and 20s F are in store across the northern Plains and Upper Midwest.
Combining the wind and other factors, AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures will fall 10 to 20 degrees below the actual temperature, despite some sunshine.

Temperatures will begin a downward trend in the Northeast beginning on Thursday and continuing into the weekend, according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Ryan Adamson.
Highs will be 5 to 10 degrees below normal during the time frame.
Average highs during the first days of February range from the upper 40s in Virginia to the upper 20s in Maine. Normal highs begin to trend upward during the month of February, generally climbing 1 degree every five to six days across the region.
RELATED:
Forecast temperature maps
Experts debunk 4 winter driving myths
VIDEO: Snow squall causes deadly pileup in Pennsylvania
“The coldest days are likely to be Friday and Saturday in the Northeast,” Adamson said.
High temperatures in New York City and Boston will be within a few degrees of the freezing mark both days. Along the corridor from Washington, D.C., to Philadelphia, highs in the middle 30s to lower 40s are in store.

Overnight lows will dip into the teens across the interior Northeast, with 20s expected along the coast.
Those headed outdoors for any length of time may need an extra layer or two to combat the chill.
“With the colder air moving over the still relatively warmer Great Lakes, lake-effect snow will continue,” Adamson said.

Motorists should remain mindful that any snow showers could quickly reduce visibility and lead to dangerous driving conditions.
As lake-effect snow begins to shut off by Saturday, a new storm will take shape across the Midwest with the potential for snow from Minneapolis to Boston over the weekend.

 

Storms loom with rain, snow and severe weather for central and eastern US next week

By Alex Sosnowski, AccuWeather senior meteorologist

February 1,2017, 11:25:08AM,EST

 

 Two major storms will impact the central and eastern United States with areas of snow, rain and perhaps severe thunderstorms next week.

One storm will swing through the Central states on Tuesday, Feb. 7, then the Atlantic seaboard on Wednesday, Feb. 8.
The second major storm is scheduled to affect the Appalachians to the Atlantic coast on or around Thursday, Feb. 9.
Large swings in temperature are likely as the storms move along. Temperatures could fluctuate by 20 degrees Fahrenheit or more from one day to the next in some cases.
The storms are likely to bring major disruptions to travel and daily activities. The storms will bring the risk of flooding rain and damaging winds to some locations and enough snow to shovel and plow to others.

The storms will follow a swath of snow and wintry mix that streaks eastward from the Midwest to the mid-Atlantic states this weekend.
"Since the storm this weekend will remove much of the cold air from the eastern half of the nation, the first big storm that rolls through next week will be a warm storm for many areas," according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Henry Margusity.
Storm one to unload snow in Upper Midwest, raise severe weather risk in South
The major storm on Feb. 7-8 is likely to track northeastward and toward the Great Lakes.
In the storm's warm southern and eastern sector, conditions will be favorable for rain and thunderstorms.
"The storm early next week is likely to bring heavy thunderstorms and the possibility of severe weather to the Southern states," Margusity said.
RELATED:
AccuWeather Winter Weather Center
Deadly pileups occur in Pennsylvania amid sudden, blinding snow squalls
Snow may visit DC to New York City this weekend
Whether or not the risk of severe weather extends northward into parts of the Ohio Valley and mid-Atlantic region will depend on how strong the storm becomes.
Such a track toward the Great Lakes would mean that any snow and ice will be brief and limited to the onset of the storm in the Northeast states.
However, on the northwestern and colder flank of the storm, a combination of heavy snow and wind is in store for parts of the central and northern Plains and the Upper Midwest. Exactly where the heaviest snow falls will depend on the track of the storm.
Winds could be a significant problem around the Great Lakes with the storm from Chicago to Detroit, Cleveland and Buffalo, New York.

This has the potential to be one of the strongest storms of the winter so far for the region. Winds could get high enough to cause flooding along the lake shore areas and perhaps to cause sporadic power outages. The strength of winds alone could be enough to trigger airline delays.
Late-week weather to feature chance of snow for parts of eastern US
The second major storm is slated for late next week. While less certain than the first, it could form on the heels of the first as colder air begins to push eastward from the Midwest to the Atlantic coast.
"How quickly the cold air pushes in will determine whether rain changes to snow from the Tennessee and Ohio valleys to the Appalachians and the St. Lawrence Valley," according to AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok.
How strong the late-week storm becomes will determine whether flurries or heavy, accumulating snow occurs. The strength of the storm will also determine if severe thunderstorms develop along the southern Atlantic seaboard.
Formation of a storm farther east would be a colder and snowier scenario for the coastal areas of the Northeast at the end of next week.
If the storm stays farther west, then rain and thunderstorms will occur along the Interstate 95 mid-Atlantic and New England corridors.

This Date in Weather History for February 1,2017 from weatherforyou.com

Weather History
For Wednesday,February 1,2017

 

 

 

 

1893 - Thunder and lightning accompanied sleet and snow at Saint Louis MO during the evening hours, even though the temperature was just 13 degrees above zero. (The Weather Channel)

1951 - The greatest ice storm of record in the U.S. produced glaze up to four inches thick from Texas to Pennsylvania causing twenty-five deaths, 500 serious injuries, and 100 million dollars damage. Tennessee was hardest hit by the storm. Communications and utilities were interrupted for a week to ten days. (David Ludlum)

1951 - The temperature at Taylor Park Dam plunged to 60 degrees below zero, a record for the state of Colorado. (Sandra and TI Richard Sanders - 1987)

1985 - Snow, sleet and ice glazed southern Tennessee and northern sections of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. The winter storm produced up to eleven inches of sleet and ice in Lauderdale County AL, one of the worst storms of record for the state. All streets in Florence AL were closed for the first time of record. (1st-2nd) (The Weather Channel)

1987 - A storm in the Pacific Northwest produced wind gusts to 100 mph at Cape Blanco OR, and up to six inches of rain in the northern coastal mountain ranges. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)

1988 - Thirty cities in the eastern U.S. reported new record high temperatures for the date, including Richmond VA with a reading of 73 degrees. Thunderstorms in southern Louisiana deluged Basile with 12.34 inches of rain. Arctic cold gripped the north central U.S. Wolf Point MT reported a low of 32 degrees below zero. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)

1989 - While arctic cold continued to invade the central U.S., fifty-four cities in the south central and eastern U.S. reported new record high temperatures for the date. Russell KS, the hot spot in the nation with a high of 84 degrees the previous day, reported a morning low of 12 above. Tioga ND reported a wind chill reading of 90 degrees below zero. (The National Weather Summary)

1990 - Thunderstorms associated with an upper level weather disturbance produced severe weather across the eastern half of Texas during the late afternoon and evening. Four persons were injured at Waco TX where thunderstorms produced wind gusts to 80 mph. Thunderstorms produced wind gusts to 97 mph at Cotulla TX injuring two other persons. Golf ball size hail was reported at Whitney and northeast of Whitsett. (The National Weather Summary) (Storm Data)