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A powerful winter storm is set to transform into a bomb cyclone as it moves up the Northeast coast, bringing the first widespread snow of the season to the region. The storm, the third to hit in a week, has already dumped several inches of snow across the Midwest, causing significant travel disruptions. As reported by CNN, the storm is expected to make for a chaotic Tuesday (December 2) morning commute in the Northeast before rapidly strengthening.
Major cities like Philadelphia, New York, and Boston are likely to see some snowflakes, but heavy snow is expected to fall farther inland, particularly in areas such as the Poconos and eastern Maine, where up to 10 inches of snow could accumulate. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and advisories across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine.
The storm's rapid intensification into a bomb cyclone is marked by a significant drop in atmospheric pressure, which can lead to gusty winds along coastal New England. This system is expected to bring a mix of snow, ice, and rain, with freezing rain possible in the Central and Southern Appalachians.
Following the storm, record-breaking cold temperatures are anticipated, with areas east of the Rockies experiencing some of the lowest temperatures of the season. Cities such as Chicago and Indianapolis may see temperatures drop below their daily records, while New York City could face its coldest day since early March.