While the number of winter storm warnings across the U.S. has declined in recent days, five states remain under active alerts. Officials warn of severe conditions, including wind gusts reaching 70 mph and snowfall totals as high as 24 inches.
New Winter Storm Warnings Impact 5 States: What to Expect for Snow Totals and Wind Speeds
Cars travel along a slick, snow-covered road during a winter blizzard.
On February 11, 2026, Newsweek detailed the ongoing winter weather affecting parts of the U.S., with winter storm warnings in place for Alaska, Maine, Colorado, California, and Wyoming. These regions are facing heavy snow paired with powerful wind gusts, creating hazardous driving conditions. Travel risks intensify in remote and higher-elevation areas, where roads can quickly become impassable.
According to a KESQ News Channel 2 report citing the National Weather Service, California is also under a high wind warning in addition to its winter storm alerts. Forecasters expect wind gusts up to 70 mph at higher elevations in the San Bernardino County Mountains. The Apple and Lucerne Valleys could see winds between 45 and 55 mph. Officials warn that such gusts may topple trees and power lines, potentially causing outages and making travel especially dangerous for high-profile vehicles.
The National Weather Service has also issued a separate winter storm warning for California’s Sierra Nevada, including Wawona, Tuolumne Meadows, Shaver Lake, and Huntington Lake. Meteorologists predict up to 24 inches of snow accumulation, including snowfall already recorded, along with wind gusts reaching 50 mph. The warning emphasizes that travel in these conditions can be extremely dangerous and advises anyone who must drive to prepare accordingly. “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.”
Smarter Ways to De-Ice Your Driveway and Cut Costs During Heavy Snow
Heavy snowfall across several states often leads to ice buildup in driveways. A Men’s Journal article shared practical tips for smarter de-icing, suggesting that homeowners replace commercial rock salt with sugar beet juice in many situations.
This natural alternative costs significantly less, is safer for pets, and reduces the risk of driveway damage. However, sugar beet juice works best on lighter ice and snow accumulation.
Thicker, more stubborn ice patches may still require manual removal or traditional commercial de-icers. The article also notes that homeowners who use rock salt can avoid costly repairs by conducting a quick driveway inspection after winter, potentially saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
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