US, Canada: Adverse winter weather forecast across portions of the northwestern US and southwestern Canada through at least Feb. 14

Event

A storm system is forecast to bring heavy snowfall and ice to portions of the western and northwestern US and far southwestern Canada through at least Feb. 14. The affected areas include western and southern Washington, Oregon, central and southern Idaho, far northeastern Nevada, northern Utah, western Wyoming, and southwestern Montana, US, and far southwestern British Columbia, Canada.

Government Advisories
As of Feb. 12, the US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for western Washington, northern Oregon, far southeastern Idaho, far western Wyoming, and far northern Utah. Winter storm advisories are in effect for central and southern Washington, central and eastern Oregon, southern and central Idaho, far southwestern Montana, northeastern Nevada, and far western Wyoming. Additionally, Environment Canada has issued winter storm watches and warnings for far southwestern British Columbia including Vancouver. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update existing advisories as the winter storm transits the region over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
The latest forecast guidance indicates that accumulations of 0.45-0.9 meters (1.5-3 feet) of snow are likely in western Washington, western and northern Oregon, central Idaho, and northwestern Wyoming. Locally higher totals of 1.5 meters (5 feet) are possible at the highest elevations, where the heaviest snowfall is forecast. Lesser accumulations of 2.5-30 centimeters (1-12 inches) are likely across the remaining affected area, where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow and the precipitation is less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts are likely to lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Ice accumulation is also a concern with the passing of this system. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout the affected area.

Transport
The inclement weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area through at least Feb. 14. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Heavy wet snow and strong winds could bring down power lines and trees with foliage. Flight delays and cancellations are likely 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. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area through at least Feb. 14. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

US National Weather Service
US Road Conditions
Meteorological Service of Canada