Mountain regions set to defy expectations with a white Christmas
- New York City is facing a cold snap with temperatures dropping significantly and snow forecasted.
- Christmas Eve may bring snow showers, with a chance of accumulation that could lead to a White Christmas.
- The outcome for a White Christmas remains uncertain, with the last occurrence in New York City being over a decade ago.
On December 23, 2024, New York City is facing some of the coldest temperatures it has seen in recent years, with reports of frigid weather reaching as low as 17°F. The arctic blast has initiated a cold spell, causing a wind chill that makes it feel significantly colder, with advisories in place due to the dangerous conditions. Forecasts predict that the city will experience snow showers on Christmas Eve, especially in the morning hours between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., where light accumulation is expected. Highs for the following days will rise gradually, with a mixed bag of sun and clouds on Christmas Day itself. This potential for precipitation raises the question of a White Christmas, defined by at least an inch of snow on the ground at 7 a.m. on Christmas Day, which hasn't occurred since 2009, resulting in only an 11% historical likelihood in the city. The situation contrasts sharply with the UK, where forecasters predict a cloudy and mild Christmas Day, with little to no chance of snow. The Met Office indicated that for a White Christmas to be declared, at least one snowflake must land at any station in the UK. Despite isolated chances of precipitation in some regions, overall conditions are too warm to support significant snowfall, leaving many Britons disappointed. Overall, both regions are experiencing wintry weather, albeit with markedly different outcomes and forecasts leading into the holiday.