The National Weather Service (NWS) issued winter storm warnings for six states on Monday, anticipating the possibility of up to 30 inches of snow in certain areas of the country.
Why It Matters
This Article Includes
Snow has the potential to cause travel disruptions and create hazardous driving conditions, leading to potential risks for individuals on the road. Additionally, winter storms can result in power outages, further escalating the challenges faced during this season. It is important to note that freezing temperatures can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable groups like infants and older adults.
What To Know
Winter storm warnings have been issued in several states including California, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Washington. These warnings indicate the presence or imminent arrival of hazardous winter weather conditions such as heavy snowfall and icy conditions.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), certain higher elevations in Idaho could potentially see up to 30 inches of snow accumulation, although the exact amount may vary across different states.
The service stated that travel could range from being very challenging to nearly impossible.
Winter storm warnings were in effect for Southern Oregon and Northern California, as well as parts of California along the border with Nevada and a small area along the western Washington/Oregon border.
The National Weather Service predicted that higher peaks in Del Norte County, California, could receive up to 12 inches of snow, while certain areas in Northern Trinity County could see up to 24 inches of snowfall.
Parts of Western and Northwestern Wyoming, as well as a significant portion of Central and Southwest Montana, were also placed under a winter storm warning.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings and winter weather advisories in various states. The affected states include North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, and Vermont.
The service releases a winter weather advisory when there is an expected occurrence of freezing rain or when 2 to 4 inches of snow, along with sleet and freezing rain, are predicted to cause a notable inconvenience. However, the situation is not deemed severe enough to warrant a warning.
What People Are Saying
Yesterday, meteorologist Jason Stiff warned about the weather conditions in Montana and Wyoming. He explained that cold air from the north had collided with abundant moisture from the Pacific, resulting in rapidly dropping temperatures and heavy snowfall. Stiff urged people to travel safely in light of these challenging conditions.
NWS Sacramento issued a statement yesterday, warning the residents of interior NorCal about an upcoming storm system. According to them, this system will bring rain, mountain snow, and strong winds, which could have significant impacts. The residents are advised to plan ahead for the stormy weather and allow extra time for their travel. Furthermore, they also discourage mountain travel during this time.
On X, the NWS Green Bay issued a statement stating that a band of moderate to heavy snow is expected to form from Merrill to Sturgeon Bay late tonight. There may be instances of rain and freezing drizzle, which could lead to snow-covered and slippery roads for the Monday morning commute.
What Happens Next
The current winter storm warnings are expected to remain in effect until Friday.
The NWS regularly updates its website with forecasts, which may change from time to time.
