The first day of astronomical winter is Sunday.  Called the winter solstice, this time is one of two points during the year when Earth is most tilted on its axis. In this case, the Earth will basically “lean back”, allowing the Southern Hemisphere to be more tilted towards the Sun. It is also the kickoff to our winter season. The solstice officially occurs at 10:03 EST on Sunday.

Today's high temperature will be during the morning, then decline throughout the day.  A bit of a breeze will take hold, with temperatures feeling like they're in the teens; however, the wind will decrease throughout the afternoon.


A quick shot of snow is possible on Monday afternoon, along with near-seasonable temperatures, with highs in the mid-30s. This snow will come ahead of another wintry system moving through overnight.


After that shot of snow to open the evening, temperatures will rise, and we expect a changeover to rain. A brief period of sleet or freezing rain is not out of the question overnight. Temperatures will rise into the mid-30s, allowing everybody to get rain showers by the time Tuesday opens up.


Scattered rain showers will continue on Tuesday morning. They should taper off by lunchtime, followed by a mild, overcast day, with temperatures in the mid-40s. We may shed some of those clouds overnight. 


The lead-up to Christmas appears spotty in terms of precipitation, although temperatures remain mild. After another uneventful, cloud-filled Wednesday, mild air looks to work into the area for Christmas. High temperatures on the 25th could reach into the 50s, with some light rain showers possible.


While the forecast for the big holiday won’t be anything close to a white Christmas, those traveling on the roads or through the air should get a decent break thanks to the mild, rather uneventful weather coming during the week.


After Christmas, mild air is expected to stay in the area, with scattered shower chances, until a cool-down looks to return during the weekend.