Heavy Snowfall to Blanket Western States: Stay Safe and Plan Ahead

A significant winter storm is approaching, with warnings issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for multiple states, including California, Washington, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall, strong winds, and travel disruptions from Saturday night through Sunday, and in some areas, even into next week.

State-by-State Breakdown

California

• Yosemite National Park is expected to receive up to 8 feet of snow with winds reaching 50 mph.
• The heaviest snowfall is forecasted for Tuesday.

Washington

• The Cascades in Whatcom and Skagit Counties are forecasted to receive 12 to 22 inches of snow from Sunday morning to early Monday.

Wyoming & Montana

• Areas above 8,000 feet, including:
• Salt River, Wyoming Ranges, Absaroka Mountains, Yellowstone National Park – up to 30 inches of snow.
• Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains – up to 40 inches of snow with 40 to 50 mph winds, reducing visibility to less than a quarter of a mile.
• Wind River Mountains – up to 40 inches of snow with winds reaching 70 mph, especially over South Pass and Red Canyon on Sunday afternoon into the evening.
• The Beartooth and Crazy Mountains could see up to 3 feet of snow, mainly on south and western facing slopes, with 40 mph winds through Sunday until Monday afternoon.
• Avalanche danger will continue in these areas.

Idaho

• Regions like Big Lost Highlands, Copper Basin, Frank Church Wilderness, Sawtooth, Stanley Basin, and Sun Valley Region are expected to see:
• 3 to 6 inches of snow in the valleys.
• 8 to 18 inches of snow in areas above 7,000 feet from early Sunday morning to mid-morning on Monday.

Safety Recommendations

• The NWS advises travelers to keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in their vehicles in case of emergencies.
• Call 511 for up-to-date travel information.
• Recreation in the high country will be impacted by heavy accumulating snow and blowing snow.
• Residents and travelers are urged to take extra care during morning and evening commutes and to reconsider travel plans in some areas.

This storm could cause significant inconveniences, especially with Christmas approaching and many people planning to travel to see family and friends.