Winter storm warnings are in effect across multiple states as potentially dangerous conditions move in, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Forecasters say some areas could see significant snowfall — in places, totals may reach as much as 3 feet — from now through Saturday night and into early Sunday.
The timing could create major headaches for holiday travelers. With millions expected to be on the road this season, hazardous winter weather may impact driving conditions, especially during one of the busiest travel weekends.
The NWS issues winter storm warnings when a “significant combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent.”
The most intense conditions are expected in parts of Washington, Oregon, and Wyoming, where warnings are currently posted.
In Washington’s Cascade Range, snowfall could reach 1 to 3 feet. In Wyoming, several mountain ranges and Yellowstone National Park are expected to receive 4 to 12 inches. Very strong winds are also forecast in the region, with gusts that may reach 70 mph.
Outside the warning zones, winter weather advisories extend across wide sections of the Rocky Mountains, Northern Plains, Great Lakes region, Pacific Northwest, and into parts of Utah, Montana, Idaho, and Alaska.
In Colorado, snow totals of 2 to 8 inches are expected, with higher amounts in northern mountain ranges. Similar wintry conditions are forecast in the mountains of Montana, Idaho, and Utah.
Snow is also likely to affect the Great Lakes area, including parts of Michigan and Minnesota, where 3 to 7 inches are possible. In North Dakota, strong winds could blow existing snow, reducing visibility and making travel more difficult.
In Alaska, light snow combined with strong winds may significantly cut visibility — potentially down to a quarter mile in some Arctic and coastal areas.
Officials are urging motorists to slow down and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in mountain passes and open areas where wind and blowing snow can rapidly worsen conditions.
In a winter storm warning, the NWS advised that “persons should consider delaying all travel.”
“If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution,” the agency said, recommending that drivers carry a winter storm kit — including tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, a first aid kit, and other essentials in case they become stranded.
Residents and travelers are encouraged to keep checking local forecasts for updates, as conditions can change quickly and warnings may expand or shift. Authorities across affected states are also advising people to review emergency plans and be ready for rapidly deteriorating weather.
