Winter Weather Lingers Across the West
Multiple storm systems will continue to bring rain and high elevation snow across the western U.S. through this weekend.
Snow will gradually taper off across the Rockies and western High Plains today as the first system moves into the Plains. This system will be responsible for a multi-day severe weather outbreak across the central and eastern U.S. through this weekend.
Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories remain in place this morning across the Four Corners region into the central and northern Rockies as snow continues to wind down.
Following behind this first system is another storm system that will plow into the West Coast today. Rounds of moisture will bring several fresh inches of snow across the Sierra Nevada Mountains into the Cascades today where numerous Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories have been issued. These warnings and advisories also extend into the mountains of southern California, including those in Santa Barbara and Ventura County.
Over the highest elevations, 8 to 16 inches of fresh snow is expected today. Several inches of snow will be likely over the passes, leading to difficult, if not dangerous, travel conditions. Lighter snow from this system will spread across much of the Intermountain West tonight through Saturday.
In addition, gusty winds will accompany the rain and mountain snow, with wind gusts of 45 to 60 mph likely today. As a result, High Wind Warnings and Advisories are sprinkled about California.
Yet another storm system will take aim at the West Coast for Sunday and Monday. The initial surge of moisture will likely impact western Oregon into northern California on Sunday, with moisture reaching central California and Nevada by Monday. Additional snow accumulations of a foot or more will be possible over the highest elevations, while more than 1 inch of rain will be possible in the lower elevations.
Gusty winds will also accompany this system. Already, a High Wind Watch has been issued across coastal areas of southwestern Oregon and northwestern California. Sustained winds of 25 to 35 mph will be possible, while wind gusts of up to 50 to 60 mph may occur.
It’s never too early to prepare for inclement weather. Simply by having an emergency kit equipped with a weather radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food, water, clean clothes and blankets will go a long way in keeping your family safe, warm and protected. Be sure to check the WeatherBug App or your local weather stations to keep informed on the approaching weather.
