20 Feb 2023 | 09:21 AM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast across western and north-central regions through at least Feb. 23
Adverse winter weather forecast across the western and north-central US through at least Feb. 23. Hazardous travel conditions are likely.
Event
A winter storm system is forecast to bring adverse weather across much of the western and north-central US through at least Feb. 23. The system will bring heavy snow and strong winds across much of the affected area from the West Coast to the Upper Midwest and temperatures are likely to drop significantly behind the passing of the storm. Heavy snowfall accumulations are likely in mountainous parts of the region and a mix of snow, sleet, and rain is possible at lower elevations. Isolated heavy downpours and thunderstorms are also possible in coastal areas of the northwest. Snowfall accumulations of well over 30 cm (12 inches) are likely in mountain ranges and the combination of snow and strong winds could cause blizzard conditions in places. Hazardous driving conditions are likely across the affected areas due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.
Government Advisories
As of early Feb. 20, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings across parts of western and southeastern Washington, western and northeastern Oregon, far northern California, western and central Montana, southeastern Idaho, and western and southern Wyoming. Winter storm watches have been issued across much of Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and South Dakota, as well as parts of central and southeastern Idaho, eastern Nevada, northern and central Arizona, western Colorado, northern and western Nebraska, northwestern Iowa, central and southern Minnesota, and western Wisconsin. Winter weather advisories have been issued across parts of western Oregon, northwestern and eastern California, central and northeastern Nevada, northern Idaho, western and central Montana, northern Colorado, northern and eastern North Dakota, northern and central Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, and northwestern Michigan. Avalanche warnings have been issued for parts of north-central Washington and high wind warnings, watches, and advisories are also in place across parts of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area, especially at higher elevations. Lesser accumulations are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow, and precipitation are less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in some areas. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Flight delays and cancellations are possible due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. If routing shipments by truck through the affected area, plan accordingly for delivery delays. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
