A powerful weather system has already begun impacting the West Coast, which desperately needs precipitation after a quiet snow season — especially in the mountains.
According to data from the National Weather Service, AccuWeather, and several respected meteorologists, this winter storm could dump as much as 16 feet of snow in the mountains and several feet at lower elevations, while also bringing nearly a foot of rain.
National Weather Service Issues ‘Marginal Risk’ Warning
As a deep upper-level trough lingers over the West, the National Weather Service released an updated risk alert warning of possible flash flooding.
“Although the heavier rainfall have diminished, the cold front and shortwave energy dives southward along the West Coast and will bring renewed rainfall with generally 1–2″ over lower elevations and 2–4″ over higher elevations over parts of central and southern California,” the NWS warned.
“This will create a Marginal Risk for excessive rainfall and flash flooding over the area, especially over burn scars. In addition to the rainfall, snow chances will remain elevated over Pacific Northwest, Intermountain West, and California mountain ranges, with heaviest accumulations of 12″ or more over higher peaks of the Sierra and Cascade through Thursday.”
The agency also cautioned that the greater Lake Tahoe area could see winds reaching up to 100 mph. “Additional snow accumulations between 1 to 3 feet in the Tahoe Basin, locally up to 4 feet along the highest peaks. Snow totals will be highest on the west shore, and much of Alpine County. Winds gusting up to 50 mph in valleys, with Sierra ridge gusts over 100 mph,” an NWS forecast for the region stated.
Up to 16 Feet of Snow Falling in Strong Winter Storm
AccuWeather released its latest forecast for the region, projecting that up to 12 feet of snow could fall by the end of the week.
“Through Wednesday 4–8 feet of snow is expected, with the heaviest period likely to be from Monday night through Tuesday. From 8–12 feet of snow is likely to pile up through the end of the week over the high country of the Sierra Nevada,” it said.
Washington Post meteorologist Ben Noll is predicting even greater totals, sharing a graphic on social media showing up to 192 inches — or 16 feet — of snow falling in California.
“A lot of snow is forecast across the snow drought-stricken Intermountain West through the end of the month. It won’t break the drought, but relief is on the way,” he said.
Noll’s graphic places 11 states in the path of the powerful winter storm: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
Winter Safety Tips to Know
Residents expecting heavy snowfall are advised to winterize outdoor faucets, use insulation solutions for windows, prepare for roof snow removal, and apply salt to driveways and walkways in ways that remain safe for children and pets.
The American Red Cross also cautions against using common items like candles indoors during a snowstorm because of fire hazards. “Avoid using candles because of the fire risk. Use battery-powered lights and flashlights instead,” it said.
Meanwhile, the American Red Cross warned that carbon monoxide poisoning frequently occurs during power outages when people rely on generators, grills, or other indoor heating and cooking methods, including opening heated ovens to warm the house.
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