Long-range pattern update through January

Latest observations, teleconnections and model data indicate an expansion of cold across Canada this month as a strong ridge of high pressure retrogrades from the Pacific Northwest to Alaska.

Once the ridge gets up into Alaska, it will create a path for Arctic air to expand southeastward deep into Canada.

It does not look like the East may be a battleground area with a tighter temperature gradient in place, which is usually the zone where storms like to track along, thus we may be going into a stormier period from the Great Lakes to the Northeast and eastern Canada this month. This may give many areas more opportunities for snow.

This pattern may also result in a much quieter period (at least a temporary break from the stormy pattern) for southwestern British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest.