Another powerful winter system is set to slam parts of the U.S. this weekend, with forecasters warning that Winter Storm Hernando could bring up to a foot of snow, strong winds, and potential coastal flooding across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.
According to the Weather Prediction Center, snowfall projections increased rapidly Friday evening, shifting from light accumulations to heavier totals in key metro areas.
Areas between Boston and Philadelphia face roughly a 50% chance of receiving at least six inches of snow.
Meteorologists say New York City could see between six and twelve inches, though totals remain uncertain and could shift depending on the storm’s exact track. Experts caution that even a 50-100-mile shift east or west could significantly alter snowfall amounts for millions.
The storm is expected to develop on Saturday, intensify on Sunday, and taper off on Monday afternoon. The heaviest snow is forecast late Sunday into early Monday, with some regions potentially experiencing 18 to 24 hours of continuous snowfall.
Wind gusts between 30 and 50 miles per hour could create near-blizzard conditions in parts of the Northeast. Coastal areas may also face flooding risks as the system strengthens offshore.
Forecasters note that warmer air could initially bring freezing rain in some areas before transitioning to snow. The storm’s path remains fluid, with clearer projections expected once it fully organizes.
This comes as much of the West is already digging out from heavy snowfall tied to a Pacific system earlier in the week.
Parts of California, Nevada, Colorado, and Utah have recorded significant snow totals. In northern and central Nevada, some areas saw 55 to 70 inches over 72 hours.
Meteorologists also warned of avalanche risks in mountainous regions following the intense snowfall. Earlier this week, an avalanche in Northern California’s backcountry resulted in multiple fatalities.
Winter Storm Hernando marks the second major East Coast system this season. January’s Winter Storm Fern delivered more than a foot of snow across multiple states and caused widespread disruption, per the Daily Mail.
Officials are urging residents in affected regions to monitor local forecasts closely and prepare for potential travel delays, power outages, and hazardous road conditions.
While the full impact of Hernando remains uncertain, forecasters agree that significant snowfall and strong winds are likely for major population centers along the I-95 corridor.
The final totals will depend on the storm’s exact track — and small shifts could mean the difference between moderate snowfall and a major winter event.
