The National Weather Service has updated its graphical forecast feature to show which areas of the United States are facing snowy conditions this weekend.
Throughout the month, the coldest and snowiest region in the country has consistently been the elevated peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and this weekend will be no different. The NWS forecasts heavy snowfall, strong winds, and cold temperatures in the mountains that could affect travel throughout Idaho, Montana, and Washington.
By setting the graphical forecast to its “Snowfall 71-hr High End” function, users can find an interactive map of the states facing the heaviest snowfall this weekend. The clearest outlier, marked by a dark red section on the map, is the peaks of the Rockies in the vicinity of Seattle and near the Canadian border.
These stormy conditions will begin as early as Friday evening, with the NWS predicting total snowfall levels of 50 inches in the mountains surrounding Wenatchee and Everett. While this snowfall will largely be confined to elevated peaks, it could make travel difficult throughout these cities, particularly along Interstate 90 and its connecting roads.
By Saturday, this winter storm will have solidified itself in Washington and should reach its peak by the end of the day. Snowfall could reach levels in excess of 60 inches on the mountains’ highest peaks, while residential areas should expect more manageable levels of just a few inches.
By Sunday, the winter conditions will largely be over, with the mountains returning to a base average snowfall level that should not affect travel or nearby residential areas. Similar storms in Colorado and Idaho, which follow a largely familiar pattern, should also die down by Sunday evening and return to normal.
While these localized storms should not affect local towns and villages beyond what’s expected for this time of year, drivers and hikers should take extra caution if travelling through the elevated peaks this weekend. Individuals should always carry sufficient winter survival kits in case of accidents, and be aware of the numbers to call for local rescue services.
