StormTracker8: Increasing confidence for weekend winter storm

RICHMOND, Va (WRIC) -- All eyes are on this weekend as we track our next snowstorm. This storm could be one of the biggest in the last decade.

An arctic front will sweep through on Thursday and set the stage for very cold air to pull into the region. This will bring temperatures well below freezing heading overnight Friday into Saturday.

The snow is expected to begin around sunrise on Saturday and last through late Sunday night. Most of the system will be snow, but there is now increased confidence in the potential for a snow to sleet transition as we continue through Sunday.

Counties south of Chesterfield, Amelia, and Prince Edward will have the best chance for that snow to sleet on Sunday. North we will see the heaviest snowfall.

Future snow totals remain unknown. We do not have a snow map for you at this time; as we get to 60-72 hours out we will have an even better picture!

After the winter storm, temperatures will plunge into the single digits for Monday morning. Weather conditions and roadways are expected to be extremely dangerous. Temperatures are not forecast to return to above freezing until the end of next week.

As for the rest of this week: Tonight will be cold with lows in the teens. Tomorrow's highs will be in the low 40s, and Thursday will be our last warm day, with highs in the 50s. Friday will be cooler, with highs in the 40s again.