Winter storm warnings have been issued as up to 24 inches of snow is expected to strike five states overnight Tuesday into Wednesday and Thursday. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns that severe winter weather conditions will make travel extremely dangerous.
States Affected By Winter Storms
The NWS has issued winter storm warnings for Alaska, Maine, Colorado, California, and Wyoming, and has advised those in affected areas to consider delaying travel.
Alaska
Parts of the interior Kuskokwim Delta are expected to receive an additional 2 inches of snow and see winds around 35 mph overnight Tuesday, with snowfall expected to end early Wednesday morning.
The northern Bristol Bay Coast and the western Capes are also forecast to get another 2 inches of snow with 40 mph winds until Wednesday.
The NWS says blowing snow could reduce visibility to a half mile or less.
Maine
Between 5 and 8 inches of snow could fall on coastal and central Washington County, as well as coastal and interior Hancock County, by Wednesday night, with localized higher amounts possible.
Southern Penobscot County could get up to 4 inches of snow by early Wednesday evening, with hazardous conditions expected to affect the Wednesday morning and evening commutes.
Colorado
The Park Range, including Rabbit Ears Pass, along with the Elkhead and Park Mountains, could receive 6 to 15 inches of snow, with up to 20 inches possible across the highest peaks, from Wednesday morning through Thursday.
California
Between 12 and 18 inches of snow could fall in areas above 7,000 feet, with up to 24 inches expected in the highest elevations across Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge, the upper San Joaquin River region, and Yosemite National Park by Wednesday afternoon. The heaviest snowfall is expected overnight Tuesday into Wednesday morning.
Wyoming
The Sierra Madre and Snowy Ranges could see 12 to 20 inches of snow from Wednesday morning until mid-Thursday morning. The NWS warned that outdoor recreation could become life-threatening for those caught unprepared, and that hikers and snowmobilers may become disoriented.
Advice For Winter Storms
The NWS warns that if people aren’t prepared for extreme winter weather, frostbite and hypothermia can develop quickly.
If travel is absolutely necessary, motorists should call 511 for the latest local road conditions before leaving. Drivers should allow extra time, slow down, leave plenty of space between vehicles, avoid sudden braking, be ready for sudden visibility changes, and use extreme caution on hills and when making turns.
The NWS also recommends ensuring vehicles are in good working order and carrying a winter storm kit in case of emergencies or becoming stranded. Suggested items include tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, and high-energy, non-perishable food.
