12 Dec 2022 | 11:46 AM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast over western and central regions through at least Dec. 15 /update 2
Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of the western and central US through at least Dec. 15. Hazardous travel conditions are likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the western and central US through at least Dec. 15. A strong winter storm over the Intermountain West as of early Dec. 12 is forecast to spread westward over the northern and central plains and into the Upper Midwest, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and freezing rain to parts of the affected regions over the coming days. Daily snowfall accumulations of around 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) are possible across much of the affected area, with isolated accumulations of more than 45 cm (18 inches) possible. Gusty winds upwards of 64-80 kph (40-50 mph) are forecast in parts of the West North Central region and could cause blizzard conditions. Freezing rain could lead to ice accumulations from the Dakotas into the Upper Midwest. Hazardous driving conditions are likely due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.
Government Advisories
As of early Dec. 12, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued blizzard warnings across parts of southeastern Montana, eastern Wyoming, western South Dakota, western Nebraska, and northeastern Colorado. Winter storm warnings have been issued for parts of eastern Oregon, eastern and southern California, western and eastern Idaho, northern and southwestern Utah, southern and eastern Montana, central and eastern Wyoming, southwestern Colorado, southern and western North Dakota, central and western South Dakota, and central Nebraska. Ice storm warnings have been issued for parts of northeastern South Dakota. Winter storm watches, winter weather advisories, avalanche warnings, freezing fog advisories, and dense fog advisories have been issued across other 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 some periods of blowing and drifting snow. 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.
