A major winter storm system is sweeping across the United States, placing more than 18 million residents in the West and Midwest under severe weather alerts. The National Weather Service and CBS forecasts warn of a dangerous combination of heavy snowfall, bitterly cold wind chills, and potential flooding.
Snow Blankets Rockies, Heads Towards Plains and Midwest
The powerful weather event is already active. CBS Meteorologist Andrew Kozak reported that heavy snow is falling over the Northern Rockies, where higher elevations could see a foot or more of accumulation by Saturday. The system is then predicted to shift eastwards.
From South Dakota to northwest Illinois, including the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, forecasts indicate widespread snow. These regions should prepare for 4 to 6 inches, with some isolated areas receiving even higher totals. Chicago is under a winter weather advisory, with 2 to 5 inches expected to create hazardous travel conditions on roads and sidewalks by early morning, according to CBS Chicago.
Bitter Cold and Continued Snowfall Threats
The snow is just the first part of the hazard. A severe cold outbreak will follow in its wake. By Sunday night into Monday, temperatures are forecast to plunge below zero degrees across sections of the Dakotas and Minnesota.
The respite will be brief for some. CBS Minnesota reported that another round of snow is anticipated to hit the metro region and southern Minnesota by Saturday afternoon, accompanied by those bitter temperatures. Furthermore, the National Weather Service projects moderate to heavy snow over parts of the upper and middle Mississippi Valley on Saturday night.
In the West, Colorado is under winter storm warnings and advisories. As CBS Colorado highlighted, mountain areas will likely bear the brunt of the significant snowfall.
Pacific Northwest Braces for Prolonged Flood Risk
While the central US deals with snow and cold, the Pacific Northwest faces a different threat. A series of Pacific weather systems are set to target the region starting late Sunday into Monday.
Meteorologist Kozak stated that western Washington and Oregon should expect widespread heavy rain. The ground is already saturated, raising the serious possibility of flash flooding. Flood watches are currently in effect, and forecasters warn that the heavy rain threat could persist for an extended period, potentially 5 to 10 days.
This multi-faceted storm system underscores the importance for residents in affected areas to stay informed through official weather channels and to take necessary precautions for travel and safety.
