A significant winter storm is set to impact much of the South and Northeast, with an estimated 200 million Americans expected to experience snowfall this weekend. As the winter season progresses, many residents are eager to know just how much snow will accumulate in their areas. Fortunately, several online resources provide real-time data on snowfall levels across the country.
Tracking Snowfall: Reliable Online Resources
For those seeking accurate snowfall measurements, the National Weather Service (NWS) offers a straightforward solution. Users can access the NWS Snowmap and Snowfall Analysis, both of which provide detailed snowfall data in inches. The Snowmap utilizes color-coded circular markers to visually represent snowfall amounts in specific cities, while the Snowfall Analysis presents the information in a more traditional weather report format. These tools allow users to monitor snowfall over the past hour, 24 hours, and 72 hours.
It is important to note that while these resources are excellent for assessing current conditions, they do not provide future snowfall forecasts. Instead, they focus solely on reporting measurements of snow that have already fallen.
Modern Tracking Options
For a more contemporary tracking experience, the USA Today Snowfall Accumulation Tracker is an excellent alternative. This platform, leveraging data from the National Weather Service, maps snowfall across the United States over the past 24, 48, and 72 hours. Additionally, it features a “Season” toggle, allowing users to view total snowfall accumulation for the entire winter season up to this point.
For those interested in comprehensive weather forecasting, Windy.com provides an interactive map that includes snowfall forecasts as well as current measurements. While this site offers extensive meteorological data, including temperature and wind gusts, users should be aware that some premium features may require a subscription. Thus, for casual users, the NWS and USA Today platforms may be more user-friendly.
Another highly reliable source is the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), which publishes a Daily U.S. Snowfall and Snow Depth report. This report aggregates data from over 100,000 land surface stations worldwide, ensuring accurate snowfall information. However, it is worth noting that this report typically becomes available a few days after snowfall events have occurred, as it relies on data from the Global Historical Climatology Network daily database.
As the winter storm unfolds, these resources will be invaluable for Americans eager to stay informed about snowfall levels in their regions. Whether checking on family, friends, or simply assessing local conditions, the availability of detailed snowfall data enhances public awareness and preparedness during this winter season.
