03 Apr 2023 | 08:31 AM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast over northern and western regions through at least April 5
Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of the northern and western US through at least April 5. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the northern and western US through at least April 5. A storm system developing over the Great Basin and central Rockies April 3 is expected to eject northeastward across central and northern plains and onto the Upper Midwest Arpil 4-5, bringing heavy snowfall and strong winds across the affected areas. Snowfall accumulations of 30-60 cm (12-24 inches) are possible in the region over the coming days, with isolated higher totals. The combination of heavy snowfall and strong winds will likely lead to blizzard conditions across parts of the affected area. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.
Government Advisories
As of early April 3, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued blizzard warnings across parts of far northeastern Wyoming, southern and western South Dakota, and northern Nebraska. Winter storm warnings have been issued for parts of northeastern Nevada, central, northern, and western Utah, northwestern Colorado, much of Wyoming, southeastern and southern Montana, and northwestern Nebraska. Winter storm watches have been issued for parts of southern Montana, southeastern Wyoming, central, northern, and western Nebraska, central, northeastern, northern, and southern South Dakota, much of North Dakota, and central and northern Minnesota. Winter weather advisories have been issued for parts of eastern and north-central Nevada, northwestern Utah, southeastern Idaho, southern Wyoming, and central and southern Colorado. 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.
