11 Oct 2021 | 05:11 AM UTC
U.S.: Adverse winter weather forecast across the western regions through at least Oct. 13
System to bring heavy snowfall, ice, strong winds to parts of the western regions, U.S., through at least Oct. 13. Disruptions possible.
Event
A storm system is forecast to bring snow and ice to portions of the Northwest, West, and Southwest regions, U.S., through at least Oct. 13. The affected area includes northern Arizona, northern California, western Colorado, Idaho, southern Montana, Nevada, northern New Mexico, Oregon, far western South Dakota, Utah, southern Washington, and Wyoming.
As of early Oct. 11, the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for far eastern Idaho, southwestern Montana, and northwestern Wyoming. Additionally, winter storm watches and advisories are in effect for eastern Idaho, southern Montana, eastern Nevada, far western South Dakota, central Utah, and the rest of Wyoming. Freeze warnings are in place for eastern California, western Colorado, western Nevada, northwestern New Mexico, and far southern Washington while freeze watches have been issued for western California, southwestern Idaho, western and northern Oregon, and southern Washington. 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 widespread accumulations of up to 76 cm (30 inches) are forecast across the mountainous areas of Colorado, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming through at least Oct. 13. Lesser accumulations are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow and the precipitation are less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.
Transport
The inclement weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways including Interstate 25 and U.S. Highways 16 and 26 corridors in Wyoming. 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 March 16. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
