Winter Storm Warnings Across U.S. As Heavy Snow Expected From California to Northeast

Multiple winter storms producing heavy snow will impact various areas of the U.S. this week. One storm producing heavy snow will move from the Midwest into the Great Lakes and Northeast, while another cold system producing heavy mountain snow will move through the Four Corners region. Finally, a winter storm will hit California, producing excessive rain and heavy snow.

Winter Storm Warnings are in place in areas across the country. A Winter Storm Warning means that snow will cover the roads and that there will be limited visibility. Additionally, people in areas under a warning are recommended not to travel. Road closures and travel delays are also likely.

Mid West, Great Lakes, and Northeast

Snow is expected in areas of the Ohio Valley, Great Lakes, and Northeast. Southeast Nebraska and southwest Iowa, including Lincoln and Omaha, may see more than a foot of snow. Winter Weather Advisories and Winter Storm Warnings have been issued for impacted areas.

Light snow is expected from the central Plains to the lower Ohio Valley, while moderate snowfall amounts up to 6 inches will be possible on Wednesday night, across the southern Appalachians.

Snow Chicago Illinois
Snow covers vehicles in a car parking lot at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois, on January 26, 2021, as Winter Storm Warnings are in place in areas across the U.S. KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI/Getty

Four Corners/Southwest

Snow is falling across parts of Arizona, Utah, and parts of the southwest, while areas of higher elevation will likely experience heavy snow, with the potential to see more than a foot of snow. The National Weather Service warns that traveling in this area of the U.S. may be hazardous.

California

A low-pressure system will arrive onshore in California by Tuesday night, bringing gusty winds, heavy rain in coastal and lower elevation areas, and mountain snow on Wednesday. Snow levels in northern California are expected to start as low as 500 to 2,500 feet, before slowly rising.

Central and Southern California is expected to see several inches of rainfall, and there is a risk of excessive rainfall and debris flows. Upwards of seven to 10 inches of rain could fall along the central California coastline.

Extremely heavy snowfall is possible across the Sierra Nevada, with several feet of snow expected to accumulate through Wednesday night. Around six to 10 feet of snow is expected in areas above 4,000 feet, and around five to ten inches of snow expected in areas from 2,000 to 4,000 feet, with winds as fast as 55 mph are also likely.

Winter Storm Warnings are in effect or will be in effect in areas across California and Nevada.

The weather conditions could impact travel in mountainous areas and strong winds could cause tree damage. The National Weather advises those that must travel to take an extra flashlight, food, and water, in case of an emergency, and to prepare for possible power outages. Get the latest information on road conditions for your state by calling 511.

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