This weekend, a significant winter storm could impact the United States. There are winter weather alerts for 27 different states. National Weather Service forecasts heavy, up to 2-foot snow in some places, along with freezing temperatures. This will create hazardous travel conditions and increase the likelihood of power outages.
Winter Storms: Why they Matter
Winter weather is approaching and it poses serious dangers.
- Health Risks Extreme cold temperatures can pose a serious threat to vulnerable groups, like infants and the elderly. They may also be dangerous for people with health issues. As temperatures drop, hypothermia can develop and even frostbite.
- Travel disruptions: Driving can be extremely dangerous when driving on ice, snow blowing, or heavy snowfall. The mountainous areas and highways will be affected the most, which could lead to travel delays or closures.
- Electricity Outages Power lines can be damaged by strong winds and heavy snow, leaving businesses and homes without power. Winter is a particularly difficult time for power outages, as they can affect heating systems and vital services.
States under Winter Weather Warning
There are several states that have winter storm warnings in place.
- Idaho
- Utah
- Washington
- Oregon is a mountainous state, specifically the Oregon Cascades.
- Colorado, especially the mountainous regions of Northern and Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains
- New Mexico
- Wyoming, especially the Sierra Madre range and Snowy Ranges
- New York
- Vermont
- Michigan
- Maine
- New Hampshire
Winter weather advisory messages have also been released for the following:
- Wisconsin
- Minnesota
- Indiana
- Pennsylvania
- North Carolina
- Virginia
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Montana
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- Ohio
- Massachusetts
- Maryland
- West Virginia
Regional breakdown of expected impacts
- Western States (Oregon, Wyoming, Colorado): West-coast states will see the largest snowfall accumulations. Oregon’s mountains could receive up to 20″ of snow. Wyoming’s Sierra Madre Ranges, Snowy Ranges, and higher elevations may receive up to 20 inches of snow. Colorado’s mountains are expecting heavy snowfall. Some areas could receive up to five additional inches. Trees may also fall due to wind gusts of up to 45mph.
- Northeast (New York Vermont Michigan Maine New Hampshire) In the Northeast, snowfall is expected to be between 6 and 13 inches. Isolated areas may exceed these amounts. Maine and New Hampshire have forecast a mixture of snow, freezing rain, and ice. This could create extremely dangerous driving conditions.
Winter Storm Preparation
The authorities are urging people to avoid unnecessary travel in the event of a winter storm. If you must travel during the winter storm, take these precautions.
- Keep Emergency Supplies on Hand: Prepare a survival kit that includes essentials such as water, food, blankets and first aid kits.
- Please check the road conditions: Be sure to check road conditions, weather conditions and forecasts before heading out.
- Drive Safely: Black ice can be dangerous, so reduce your speed and increase the distance you follow.
Electricity outages can be a serious problem. When using a portable generator, keep it away from the windows and outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide.
National Weather Service: Official Weather Warnings
National Weather Service Offices across affected states include the National Weather Service Updated warnings have been issued. Below are some samples directly.
- NWS Pendleton: Snow accumulation will impact travel time and reduce visibility.
- NWS Cheyenne Unsettled weather expected this weekend through most of next week – be prepared for strong cold fronts.
- NWS Buffalo: For most of Western New York there will be snow that transitions to wintry rain and mix.
- NWS Gray Winter Storm is coming, bringing the possibility of icing as well as over six inches of snow.
The Forecast: Updates on Storm Duration
Winter weather conditions are here warnings The current weather conditions may change the dates.
Staying informed of the most recent weather information is important. National Weather Service continues to provide updates via its website, television broadcasts, and social media. Prepare for the worst and stay safe.