US: Adverse winter weather forecast over central and western regions through at least Nov. 25 /update 1

Adverse winter weather is forecast to continue across parts of the central and western US through at least Nov. 25. A winter storm system is forecast to bring heavy snow and strong winds across the Rockies and into the central plains Nov. 24 before the system tapers off in the mountainous west early Nov. 25 and in the central plains by late Nov. 25. Snowfall accumulations of 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) are possible in the Wasatch Range and central Rockies and 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) in western Nebraska and central and western Kansas. Heavy snowfall may combine with blustery winds to cause low visibility and hazardous driving conditions across parts of the affected area.

As of Nov. 24, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings across much of Wyoming and parts of southern Idaho, southern Montana, eastern and northern Utah, northern, southern, and western Colorado, far northern New Mexico, western Nebraska, and central Kansas. Winter storm watches are in effect for parts of east-central Kansas and winter weather advisories are in place across most of the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

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 is 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.

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.