29 Nov 2022 | 09:55 AM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast over west-central regions through at least Dec. 1 /update 1
Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of the west-central US through at least Dec. 1. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
A cold front is forecast to bring adverse winter weather across parts of the west-central US through at least Dec. 1. The front is expected to produce heavy snow and strong winds over the ranges of Utah and Colorado before moving across the Great Plains and into the Upper Midwest Nov. 29-30. As well as heavy mountain snow, a swath of light-to-moderate snowfall at lower elevations is likely from east of the Rockies northeastward to the Great Lakes. Snowfall accumulations of more than 20 cm (8 inches) are likely at higher elevations in Colorado and Utah and more than 15 cm (6 inches) over southeastern Wyoming and the Nebraska Panhandle Nov. 29-30. Accumulations of more than 15 cm (6 inches) are also possible at lower elevations in northeastern Nebraska, northwestern Iowa, southwestern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, and western upper Michigan over the coming days. The heavy snow accompanied by strong winds will likely lead to hazardous driving conditions due to icy roads and reduced visibility.
Government Advisories
As of early Nov. 29, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings over parts of central Utah, central and northern Colorado, southern and southeastern Wyoming, far western Nebraska, southwestern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, and far western upper Michigan. Winter weather advisories have been issued across much of the rest 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 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. 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.
