Early Afternoon Trends, Observations

The Storm Prediction Center has posted a Heavy Snow Discussion.

SPC Mesoscale Discussion

They are expecting snow rates to increase from the current 0.5 inches per hour to 1 inch per hour by 3, and then heavier snow will begin to work in tonight.  This storm looks impressive on radar

1 PM Northeast Radar

In a few hours, once we get into these deep yellows and oranges the snowfall rates will increase.  Furthermore the low pressure system will continue to deepen as it moves NE then ENE.  I'm looking forward to seeing what the radar looks like around 8 PM.

Also impressive on satellite

1215 PM visible with surface fronts

Here is the infrared 

1215 PM infrared rainbow image

And the Water Vapor

1215 PM Water Vapor

I measured 1.0 inch of snow in Northbridge, MA at 1245 PM.  Be safe! Stay the hell off the roads. In Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick issued a travel ban.  This is the first time such a ban as been in place since 1978.