The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm watch for six states on Thursday. Forecasters are cautioning about the possibility of heavy snowfall in the Northwestern U.S.
Why It Matters
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The United States has been grappling with difficult winter weather conditions this month, posing numerous challenges. Freezing temperatures, in particular, can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable populations like infants and older adults. Additionally, snowfall can significantly disrupt travel and create hazardous driving conditions, while winter storms have the potential to cause power outages.
What To Know
Currently, there are several states on winter storm watch including Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Utah.
Parts of Northern Utah, Northwest Wyoming, Western Montana, Northern and Central Idaho, and Western Oregon experienced the impact of the phenomenon.
The service issued a warning, stating that heavy snow is expected in the affected areas. They also cautioned that the storm could have significant impacts, potentially making travel extremely challenging.
According to the NWS, Washington’s Stevens Pass could potentially see snow accumulation ranging from 18 to 30 inches.
The Boise Mountains in Idaho could see up to 12 inches of snow.
According to the forecast by the National Weather Service (NWS), areas with high elevations in Utah may experience snow accumulations of up to two feet or more.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a winter storm watch is issued when there is a possibility of significant and dangerous winter weather occurring within the next 48 hours.
The service emphasizes that it cannot guarantee the occurrence of such weather, but it acknowledges the possibility.
What People Are Saying
According to NWS Boise, the snow (and rain) is making a comeback. After a dry spell of about 3 weeks, the region is about to experience valley rain/snow and heavy mountain snow starting from Friday. If you’re planning to drive into the mountains, it’s important to be prepared for winter driving conditions.
On X, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Missoula issued a statement regarding the weather conditions in western Montana. According to the NWS, there is a strong likelihood of an arctic intrusion settling in the region by Monday. However, the main uncertainty lies in the availability of sufficient moisture for heavy snowfall. Approximately 50% of the models indicate the possibility of an overrunning scenario for Montana, particularly along and south of I-90.
According to a statement by NWS Riverton on X, they have issued Winter Storm Watches for the upcoming weekend storm in western Wyoming. The area is expected to experience heavy snowfall and strong winds, which will make travel conditions challenging from Friday until early next week.
What Happens Next
As of now, the winter storm watches remain in effect until Monday afternoon.
