It's balls to the wall time!!
Astoundingly, the origin of the phrase cited above has nothing to do with the gonads, though most people who hear it assume it to be a testicular reference. In fact, it originates from aviation: the throttle handles have "balls" on top of them, so when a pilot pushes them to the wall, it's full speed ahead. (There is some disagreement as to its origin, with some positing that the phrase originates from submarining or even railroading. But all are in agreement that the phrase's derivation has nothing to do with the bollocks.)
So, the weather. It's going to get cold. (Well, colder.) Here's what to expect:
Becoming sunnier on Saturday with a windy afternoon. Temperatures will reach the mid 40s, but will feel more like the mid 30s. Same deal on Sunday, with a bit more wind.
Not literally true. But let's face it: it might as well be.A strong arctic blast moves in on Monday, bringing with it the chance of flurries and snow showers, though I don’t see the potential for measurable accumulation. High Monday 28, low 17. (Wind chills in the low 20s during the day and the low teens overnight. BC3, perhaps reaching BC4.)
Tuesday will be even colder—and brisk, too. High 24, low 15. Wind chills will be in the lower teens (daytime) and about zero (overnight). BC4, perhaps reaching BC5. When it’s BC5, when you say, “It’s cold as balls,” the words freeze into a solid block immediately after leaving your mouth. So don’t even bother.
Wednesday will be partly sunny, breezy and cold. High 26 (wind chill low teens), low 18 (wind chill upper single digits). BC3-4
Thursday looks partly sunny and less windily frigid. High 32, low 22. BC2 in general.
Overcast and quite windy on Friday with highs in the upper 30s and lows in the mid 20s. BC2.
Saturday 1/26/13 brings the next potential of wintry weather. Right now I’d say we’re in for a 6-8 inch snow accumulation, but I will provide updates next week as the event comes into clearer focus. Highs around freezing. BC3-4.
Sunday looks sunny, clear, and colder and strong winds. Highs in the mid 20s (wind chills in the low to mid teens) and lows in the mid teens (wind chills in the upper single digits). BC4.
The following week (January 28th to February 1st) looks promising if you’re starved for winter weather: snow and ice are possible Tuesday the 29th into Thursday the 31st. And maybe something on the following weekend (2/2 and 2/3).
Stay tuned for updates...