Northern Tier Faces Powerful Snow and Ice Onslaught
Two separate low-pressure systems will push late-season snow and ice across northern U.S. regions over the coming days. The storms threaten mountain passes, plains, and parts of New England with slippery travel and accumulating ice.
Pacific Northwest and Sierra Nevada
A disturbance moving across the northwest will drop significant snow in the Cascades. Forecasts call for roughly 8 to 14 inches there, creating hazardous pass conditions.
The National Weather Service has issued Winter Weather Advisories and Winter Storm Warnings. The alerts span northern Washington down into northern California and include parts of the northern Sierra Nevada.
Sierra snow totals are forecast lower than the Cascades. Expected amounts range near 4 to 10 inches with gusty winds and brief heavy snow reducing visibility.
Northern Rockies
Winter advisories and storm warnings now cover much of the northern Rockies. Western Montana, central Idaho, western and central Wyoming, and northeastern Utah are included.
Snow should begin this morning and continue through early Friday in many mountain areas. Totals are generally forecast between 3 and 10 inches, with dangerous driving on mountain passes.
Midwest and Upper Midwest Impacts
A second low will affect the Midwest today and tonight. Heavy snow and ice will fall along the disturbance’s northern flank.
Eastern parts of the Dakotas into northern Minnesota may see multiple rounds of wet snow or a rain-snow mix. Combined storms could yield 8 to 16 inches across the Dakotas and northern Minnesota.
Freezing rain poses a greater threat farther east. Southern Minnesota, much of Wisconsin, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and northern Lower Michigan face potential ice accumulations.
Ice Accumulation Threats
Forecasters expect a quarter-inch or more of ice from South Dakota and southern Minnesota into Wisconsin and Michigan. That ice layer could cause tree and power line damage.
Locally higher totals remain possible. Northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula could see a half-inch or more of ice through Saturday.
Northern New England
Northern New England will receive snow and mixed ice tonight and into the weekend. Winter Weather Advisories and Winter Storm Warnings are in effect there.
Expect up to a quarter inch of ice in spots. Northern Maine could pick up several inches of snow.
Travel, Safety, and Preparedness
Low visibility, gusty winds, and icy roads will make driving unsafe at times. Mountain passes and rural highways will be most at risk.
Pack a winter weather kit before travel. Include these essentials:
- Battery-operated radio
- Water and non-perishable food
- Extra warm clothing and blankets
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Vehicle emergency supplies, including shovel and traction aids
For ongoing updates, monitor local forecasts and Filmogaz.com. Northern Tier Faces Powerful Snow and Ice Onslaught remains the developing story across the northern states.
