THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, December 22, 1995 TAG: 9512220403
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B3 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY STEVE STONE, STAFF WRITER
LENGTH: Short : 40 lines
Welcome to winter!
The season officially began at 3:17 a.m. today. But much of the nation already has the look and feel of Christmas. And chilly, snowy weather is expected through this extended holiday weekend over much of the country.
Temperatures tonight will dip into the 20s just about everywhere except Florida, southeast Texas and coastal California, as a huge dome of arctic air extends south, even reaching into Mexico.
Snow should be falling in the nation's midsection as far south as Dallas. Wintry weather is also on tap for Pennsylvania, New York and New England today, possibly slowing some holiday travel plans.
Even Atlanta could see a white Christmas, with snow flurries possible Monday.
For Hampton Roads, however, chances are slim that any snow will fall. Although it will be cold enough at night - with overnight lows in the 20s through Monday - there doesn't appear to be any precipitation in the forecast.
Maybe Santa will knock some excess snow from his sleigh when he passes overhead.
Travelers should allow extra time for all modes of transit - whether going by air, rail or road. Keep in mind that parking at airports and rail stations may be limited to distant lots and that extra time may be needed to check baggage.
Here are the holiday weekend forecasts for selected destinations nationwide. MEMO: For complete listing of weather forecast see microfilm.
KEYWORDS: WEATHER by CNB