In our newsletters, we have mentioned that a “Clipper system” is impacting the Midwest and Northeast this week. But what is a Clipper?
A Clipper, also known as an Alberta Clipper, is a fast-moving low-pressure system that originates around Alberta, Canada. They begin as a Pacific low but lose a lot of their moisture through precipitation as they travel over the Canadian Rockies. Then, they come in contact with the cold, dry air mass on the lee side of the Rockies and begin to track southeast.
Clippers are known for their quick movement and strong winds, which can frequently gust to 35-45 mph! They produce light, dry, powdery snow that can be blown around easily, often creating blizzard-like conditions even though snowfall amounts are small. Clippers do not produce a lot of snow because of their dry airmass, and they move too fast to sit and let snow fall. A cold front associated with the system brings sharp Arctic cold to the Midwest and Northeast and can often cause a quick 30-degree temperature drop. This can create slick road conditions, such as flash-freezes. Clippers can also interact with the warmer, moister air mass that resides over the Great Lakes region, enhancing lake-effect snow.
Clippers are unique but prominent winter weather features characterized by fast movement, strong winds, and powdery snow.
