National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Back-to-Back Pacific Storms to Impact the West Coast; Heavy Snow in the Central Appalachians

Back-to-back powerful Pacific storm systems to impact the Pacific Northwest and northern California through the end of this week with heavy rain, flooding, strong winds, and higher elevation mountain snow. A strong, long-duration atmospheric river will accompany the Pacific storms, bringing excessive rainfall and flash flooding to southwest Oregon and northwest California through the week. Read More >

Overview

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Starting all the way back on February 1st, an upper-level low began to take shape over Alaska. Over the course of the next week, the system would intensify and traverse thousands of miles to arrive on the doorstep of the Florida peninsula. By February 6th, a potent setup had taken shape, with a strong cold front extending into the Gulf of Mexico. Across Florida, temperatures were warm and humid. Breezy southerly flow had transported large amounts of moist, tropical air northward, allowing temperatures to climb into the mid-80s. Behind the front, conditions were cold and dry as northern arctic air funneled south. This distinct difference, a common occurrence in winter, had an extra boost as the jet stream dipped farther to the south, producing strong, gusty winds near the surface. What was already a favorable environment for storms had become even better. All across the peninsula, many would report strong winds and minor damage. However, what is most likely to be the most memorable element of the event was the EF-0 tornado that impacted parts of Pinellas County; uprooting trees, damaging homes, and even toppling a crane onto I-275.

Infrared Satellite

Infrared Satellite Loop 

 

Radar Loop 02/06/2020 - 02/07/2020

Radar Loop 02/06/2020 - 02/07/2020