US: Winter storm forecast over portions of Northwest and West regions through at least Feb. 23

Event

Winter weather is forecast across parts of the Northwest, West, Southwest, West North Central, and Upper Midwest regions through at least Feb. 23.

As of late Feb. 20, the US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for parts of the Blue Mountains in far southeastern Washington and far northeastern Oregon and at higher elevations of the eastern Douglas foothills in western Oregon. Winter weather advisories are in place for far northwestern and central California, western and far northwestern Oregon, southwestern and far southeastern Washington while winter storm watches have been issued for southern California. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the winter storm transits the region over the coming days.

The NWS's Weather Prediction Center has warned of widespread precipitation across much of the Western United States through at least Feb. 23. The heaviest snow accumulations of more than 20 cm (8 inches) are likely along the Oregon Cascades through early Feb. 22, while light accumulations are likely across the lowlands of western Washington and Oregon over the same period. From late Feb. 21 through Feb. 22, the heavy snow is forecast to shift south, bringing snow accumulations of more than 20 cm (8 inches) across the higher elevations of the northern Sierra. From late Feb. 23 through Feb. 24, heavy snow of more than 20 cm (8 inches) is likely over the Southern California ranges.

In addition to the precipitation, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout the affected area.

Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across much of the affected areas over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. 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 highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in the region.

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. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

US National Weather Service
US Road Conditions
Weather Prediction Center