More, Better Evidence for Storm 1.27

The major weather outlets are still acting like a bunch of bickering siblings. Accuweather and NOAA are firm in their big storm predictions; Channel 13 and TWC are almost poo-pooing the storm. C'mon, 13 and TWC--everybody's doing it. It's okay to forecast a big storm. Like, what's your problem? (Eyes rolled for emphasis.)

Check out this little gem from the folks at NOAA:

THERE REMAINS UNCERTAINTY WITH REGARDS TO OUR NEXT COASTAL LOW BUT
THE MODELS HAVE COME INTO BETTER AGREEMENT AND CONTINUE TO
INDICATE THE POTENTIAL FOR MESOSCALE BANDING TO OCCUR.

First, it's good to see that at least the models are behaving nicely and getting along. But you probably want to know what "mesoscale banding" is. To put it simply, GSD strongly endorses mesoscale banding. Banding shows up on the radar in those waves or swaths of dark blue. Typically in a nor'easter, the storm takes the shape of a big comma and the bands are waves of heavy precipitation extending from the center low pressure point of the storm. A good band can produce snowfall rates of 2-4" per hour. When you get those alternating periods of intense snow and then lighter snow, your area is being banded.

A nice image of mesoscale banding during the Blizzard of Feb. 13, 2006, courtesy of NYNJPAWeather.

If Thursday's storm were stock, GSD would rate it a STRONG BUY. And then you could turn around and use your earnings to purchase a brand new snow blower because you'll need it next week and the week after.