There should be some clearing occurring Thursday night as northwest winds average 12-25 mph with higher gusts (probably still in excess of 30 mph until after midnight). Therefore, it’ll be blustery and cold overnight, but also dry.

Friday, we’re anticipating some sunshine, along with a seasonably chilly afternoon. Most daytime temperatures will be no higher than the 30s in the typically colder spots away from the coast, and only between 40 and 42 degrees in the bigger cities.

For the upcoming weekend, there has been a “buzz” during the past few days about yet another storm impacting the weather around here on Saturday and early Saturday night. If you take into account the relatively minor snow and rain event that took place late on Monday (Christmas Eve), this “mammoth storm” and a possible episode on Saturday, we’d get some form of measurable precipitation THREE TIMES over a five day period.

The global models are still showing an area of disturbed weather that will be sliding across the southern tier of states. And, we’ll continue to carry this in Saturday’s forecast. Although we’re NOT anticipating another strong, coastal storm, there should be some snow sliding across the area, which could accumulate a couple of inches. Temperatures will probably be no higher than the upper 30s.

After Saturday, it appears that the last two days of 2012 will be “storm-free,” but also quite chilly, with temperatures mainly in the 30s both days. The start of the New Year could bring with it some flurries or a bit of snow, and then the global models all seem to be hinting that some arctic air will be arriving next Wednesday and lasting through the end of the week.