Stormy Pattern, and Possibly Snow, Predicted for Next Week

Strong coastal storm may affect Framingham between Monday and Wednesday.

For those of you dreaming of a white Christmas, this forecast is what you've been waiting for. According to the National Weather Service, there is a chance for accumulating snow next week as a coastal storm develops between Monday and Wednesday. An active weather pattern is expected to begin Sunday and continue through the middle of next week. There's a possibility of snow and/or ice, with significant amounts if temperatures remain cold enough. The National Weather Service is currently predicting a 50 percent chance of rain and snow Monday night and Tuesday. Timing of the storm is still uncertain, as is the type of precipitation and any potential hazards.

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Will We See a White Christmas?

Whether you're dreaming of one or not, Mother Nature has plans.

According to STORMFAX, historically there is a 60 percent chance of one inch of snow on Christmas morning, a 27 percent chance of 5 inches and a 10 percent chance of 10 inches.    OK, but is it going to snow this Christmas? It's hard to tell this early, but Jim Arnold, a weather specialist who works with Shrewsbury's and Worcester's Emergency Communications and Emergency Management Agencices, has some theories. "Over the long term, Central Massachusetts sees a white Christmas between 6 and 7 years out of 10," said Arnold. "From a sensible weather standpoint, I do see signs of a pattern change to one of colder and stormier weather in about 10 to 14 days. That would greatly increase the chances of a white Christmas should the new pattern …

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