The first substantial snowstorm of the season is expected to strike lightly populated areas of the northern United States on Tuesday and persist until Thursday. Forecasters predict that the storm will initially hit the Pacific Northwest and northern Rockies before moving into the northern Plains over the following several days.
More than 40 million Americans may be in the path of a winter snowstorm that has the potential to become a blizzard. (Source: USA Today)
According to Weather Report
According to AccuWeather, the snowstorm will strike at least a half-dozen states and may cause substantial travel delays, with “near-blizzard conditions” probable. According to the National Weather Service, up to 2 feet of snow might fall in certain regions. “Time should be taken early this week to prepare by unpacking winter gear like shovels, coats, hats, and gloves,” AccuWeather meteorologist Joseph Bauer suggested. “It can be a good idea to start up snow removal equipment like snow blowers to ensure they function properly.” As the storm approached, winter storm warnings and watches were issued for parts of the Cascades and northern Rockies.
The weather service office in Great Falls, Montana, warned of “some disruptions to daily life,” adding that “travel could be very difficult to impossible, and tire chains may be required for some vehicles.” Those in the wilderness should make sure they have the necessary skills and equipment, and they may wish to explore other plans.” Later on Tuesday, snow and ice might cover the roadways in the Cascades and northern Rockies, says meteorologist Jonathan Erdman of Weather.com. Snowstorms are still expected in the northern high Plains on Wednesday and Thursday.
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Watch Out for Blizzards
According to Bauer, “gusty winds on Thursday can lead to blizzard-like conditions across the Dakotas, with blowing and drifting snow, along with reduced visibility.” Blizzards are distinguished by heavy snowfall and strong gusts that cause poor visibility. A blizzard is defined by the weather service as blowing or falling snow with gusts of at least 35 mph that decrease visibility to a quarter-mile or less for at least three hours. According to the meteorological service, approximately 2.5 million people were under some kind of winter weather warning as of Tuesday midday. Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and North Dakota are among the states affected.
After the snowfall passes through, severe low temperatures are expected for most of the northern Rockies and northern Plains later this week. He warned that the storm’s repercussions will bring the season’s coldest air from the Arctic. By Thursday evening, Montana and Wyoming should expect temperatures 15°F to 35°F lower than normal. And that could mean the first frosty nights in the northern Rockies. AccuWeather predicts that low temperatures in the single digits and teens will be prevalent in the Northwest and northern Plains by late week and into next weekend, the lowest readings since last spring.
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