Key Highlights
- National Weather Service issues winter weather warnings for multiple states.
- Forecast predicts up to 40 inches of snow in some areas over the weekend and into next week.
- Travel is expected to be very difficult, if not impossible, in affected regions.
- Multiple mountain ranges are forecasted to receive significant amounts of snowfall.
Winter Weather Warnings Emerge: 40 Inches of Snow Expected Across Multiple States
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued urgent winter weather warnings for a number of states, as high winds and up to 40 inches of snow are expected to hit over the weekend and into next week. This severe weather event is causing concern among residents and travelers alike.
Worst-affected Areas
California, Washington, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho are expected to experience the worst of the storm. In California’s Yosemite National Park (outside the valley), a winter storm warning has been issued until Friday afternoon. The park is bracing for up to 8 feet of snow and winds of up to 50 mph over the next few days, with the most significant snowfall expected on Tuesday.
Mountainous Regions Face Harsh Conditions
In Washington state, between 12 and 22 inches of snow are forecasted for the Cascades in Whatcom and Skagit Counties from Sunday morning through early Monday. Meanwhile, Wyoming and Montana are expecting up to 30 inches of snow in areas above 8,000 feet by Sunday afternoon into Monday. Both regions are also facing winds of up to 40 to 50 mph, with blowing snow reducing visibility to under a quarter of a mile.
The Wind River Mountains east and west could see up to 40 inches of snow, but the NWS warns that winds could reach up to 70 mph, especially over the south Pass and Red Canyon on Sunday afternoon into evening.
The Beartooth and Crazy Mountains are predicted to receive up to 3 feet of snow—mainly on the south and western facing slopes—and 40 mph winds through Sunday until Monday. The NWS has issued a warning that “avalanche danger will continue” in these areas.
Preparation for Travelers
The NWS advises those who must travel to keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in their vehicles in case of emergencies. The NWS for Montana has stated: “Recreation in the high country will be impacted by heavy accumulating snow and blowing snow.” Motorists have been warned that “travel could be very difficult to impossible” in some areas.
Residents and travelers have been urged to take extra care during morning and evening commutes, and even reconsider travel in some places. This weather event poses a significant challenge for the run-up to Christmas, with many planning to travel to see family and friends.
The NWS has emphasized that these warnings are based on current data, and conditions could change rapidly. As such, individuals should stay informed through local news outlets and official weather services.