Federal agency warns of first winter storm of the season.
The First Snowstorm of the Season to Hit Northwestern US and Northern Plains
Get ready for the first “significant” snowfall of the season! According to federal officials, the northwestern United States and portions of the northern Plains states will be blanketed in snow starting Tuesday evening.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a statement on its website, declaring, “An early-season snowstorm will impact the Northwest quadrant of the U.S. over the next few days. This significant multi-day event will likely cause difficult travel conditions across the region.”
The NWS predicts that the snowfall will range between 5 and 10 inches, with some areas in western North Dakota and eastern Montana experiencing up to 12 inches. The northern Rocky Mountains and northern Cascade Mountains can expect a whopping 1 to 2 feet of snow.
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Winter storm warnings, watches, and advisories have been issued by the NWS until Thursday for parts of Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and North Dakota. These areas are expected to receive several inches of snow, making travel challenging.
As the snowstorm approaches, a surge of deep moisture and colder temperatures will spread from Oregon and Washington state through much of Montana, heading eastward. Reports have already confirmed snowfall in the Cascades in Washington.
In addition to the snow, temperatures will plummet, creating an early winter blast. Highs will only reach the 20s, and lows will dip into the teens by Wednesday in the Northern Rockies and Northern High Plains. However, the Northwest can expect slightly milder temperatures in the 40s and low 50s.
Traveling in the areas under a winter storm warning will be extremely challenging, if not impossible. Tire chains may be required for some vehicles, and blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.
The NWS advises those in the backcountry to be prepared for dangerous conditions, as the hazardous weather could impact Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes.
The unseasonably cold air may also pose a threat to crops. Emerging winter wheat in Montana could be damaged, but any protective snow cover may mitigate the risk. Livestock across the northern Great Plains could experience stress, and un-winterized water systems, such as sprinkler systems, may be damaged.
Interestingly, these storm warnings coincide with the release of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) 2023–24 winter outlook. According to NOAA, the northern United States will experience warmer temperatures, while the southern regions will see wetter conditions.
The forecast explains, ”This year, El Nino is in place heading into winter for the first time in four years, driving the outlook for warmer-than-average temperatures for the northern tier of the continental United States.” It also predicts “wetter-than-average conditions” for northern Alaska, some western states, southern Plains states, the Southeast, Gulf states, and the lower mid-Atlantic states. However, the northern tier of the U.S., including the northern Rockies and High Plains, as well as areas near the Great Lakes, can expect drier conditions.
What preparations should residents and travelers make in anticipation of the upcoming snowstorm in the northwestern US and northern Plains?
Winter Storm Watch Ahead of First Snowstorm of the Season in Northwestern US and Northern Plains
The northwestern United States and portions of the northern Plains states are bracing themselves for the first significant snowfall of the season, as federal officials warn of an approaching snowstorm set to hit the region on Tuesday evening. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a statement declaring this to be an early-season snowstorm that will impact the Northwest quadrant of the U.S. over the next few days, causing difficult travel conditions across the region.
Predictions from the NWS indicate that snowfall amounts will range between 5 and 10 inches, with some areas in western North Dakota and eastern Montana potentially receiving up to 12 inches of snow. The northern Rocky Mountains and northern Cascade Mountains can expect a substantial 1 to 2 feet of snow. These significant snowfall amounts, combined with the multi-day duration of the event, will undoubtedly cause disruptions and challenges for residents and travelers in the affected areas.
In response to the impending snowstorm, the NWS has issued winter storm warnings, watches, and advisories until Thursday for parts of Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and North Dakota. These notifications highlight the potential hazards and difficulties that will arise due to heavy snowfall, with travel conditions expected to be particularly challenging. It is crucial that residents and commuters in these areas take precautions, stay informed about weather updates, and heed any guidance or warnings issued by local authorities to ensure their safety.
As the snowstorm makes its way towards the region, a surge of deep moisture and colder temperatures will spread from Oregon and Washington state through much of Montana, moving eastward. There have already been reports of snowfall in the Cascades in Washington, indicating the likelihood of widespread snow coverage across the affected areas.
This early-season snowstorm serves as a reminder to residents and travelers to make necessary preparations for the winter season ahead. It is advisable to stock up on essential supplies, such as food, water, and medication, and to ensure that vehicles are equipped with appropriate tires and emergency supplies. Additionally, individuals should stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions, allowing for adjustments to travel plans if necessary.
While the first snowstorm of the season may bring about inconveniences and challenges, it also offers an opportunity for communities to come together and support one another. Keeping a sense of preparedness, resilience, and neighborly assistance will go a long way in successfully navigating through this winter weather event.
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