If you used either, I’d understand perfectly what you meant.

EDIT: I should point out that “looming” suggests something ominous or negative. Where “lingering” doesn’t necessarily mean a negative upcoming event, only one that is likely unavoidable.

Sounds great. It has effective metaphorical imagery and makes sense. Just note that lingering and looming have different tones of meaning. Looming has a negative and foreboding meaning while lingering is neutral.