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In this work, using CHILL, WSR-88D, CoCoRAHS and standard meteorological observations and high-resolution MM5 numerical modeling, we examine the important role of the barrier jet in generating the unusual and extreme snowfall distribution observed during this event. Strong barrier jet periods are associated with maximum snowfall rates far upwind east of the barrier (over the plains) and immediately in the lee of the barrier, lower snow density, greater variation in meso-g-scale precipitation differences, and coincident changes to hydrometeor type as identified using PID algorithms in CHILL. Weaker barrier jet periods are found to correspond to higher snowfall rates immediately upwind of the barrier, less variability in snowfall at constant elevation and a more traditional decrease in snowfall in barrier lee. Since the barrier jet is a routine feature of extratropical cyclone systems in the vicinity of barriers, and in this region in particular, we discuss the implications of this study for the local climate.
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