First 'Major' Snow In Northeast Could Come Before Thanksgiving

Long Island could become some sort of winter wonderland even before the holidays arrive, according to forecasters.

Signs are pointing toward a displacement of the "polar vortex," accompanied by a possible significant storm with rain, snow and wind impacting the Northeast during the days prior to Thanksgiving, according to an AccuWeather release.

"There is the risk for the first major snowstorm somewhere in the Northeast during the period from Saturday, Nov. 18, to Wednesday, Nov. 22," AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok said.

The polar vortex is a storm that typically hangs out within the Arctic Circle. Arctic air is usually locked up within the bounds of this storm.

"One such southward displacement of arctic air is in progress and will sweep across the Upper Midwest and Northeast into this weekend," according to Pastelok. "A second southward displacement is possible around the days prior to Thanksgiving.

Such a storm can pose major travel problems should the storm grab the cold air fast enough to produce heavy snow inland and heavy rain and wind on the coast. Beginning next weekend, travel typically ramps up as some people begin to head to Thanksgiving destinations, according to the release.

Regardless of the storm potential, people planning on traveling by car this Thanksgiving should make sure their vehicle is prepared for winter travel conditions. A set of tires with decent tread, new wiper blades and adequate fluids are a good start in advance of the trip, according to the release.

The magnitude and path of the cold air as well as the exact formation and track of the storm may become clear later next week.

Watch Now: First 'Major' Snow In Northeast Could Come Before Thanksgiving

Patch file photo

Story by Tom Davis