The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a series of winter storm and weather warnings as a powerful storm system approaches, set to impact five states starting Thursday. The forecast indicates severe conditions, including strong winds, freezing temperatures, and snowfall accumulation of up to 12 inches, creating potentially “life-threatening” situations for those unprepared.
In Colorado, areas such as Summit County, the Mosquito Range, and Rabbit Ears Pass are expected to receive an additional 3 to 8 inches of snow, with Elkhead and Park mountains possibly seeing 3 to 7 inches by noon on Thursday. Notably, the central Mountain Valleys and various mountain ranges, including Rocky Mountain National Park, could experience up to 6 inches of snow accompanied by wind gusts reaching 35 mph, impacting visibility and making travel hazardous.
Alaska is bracing for a significant snowfall as well, particularly in Haines and along the Haines Highway, where up to 8 inches may fall. The Skagway and Klondike Highway areas could see an accumulation of 4 to 6 inches. The Arctic Coast and Brooks Range will endure severe wind chills, with temperatures forecasted to plunge as low as minus 65 degrees Fahrenheit, posing serious risks of frostbite on exposed skin in just five minutes.
Wyoming is also prepared for adverse weather, with the Sierra Madre and Snowy Range expecting an additional 10 inches of snow by Thursday morning. The NWS warns that outdoor activities could become dangerously risky for hikers and snowmobilers, as disorientation and rapid onset of frostbite and hypothermia can occur.
In New York, counties such as Chenango and Otsego may receive up to an inch of snow, while Wayne and surrounding counties are expected to see up to 3 inches, with localized amounts potentially higher. The eastern Lake Ontario region could be hit with up to 4 inches of snow, leading to “snow-covered roads,” limited visibility, and hazardous travel conditions.
Utah’s forecast is similarly daunting, with southern mountain regions above 7,000 feet anticipating up to 6 inches of snow, and areas near Brian Head and the Tushar Range expected to receive up to 12 inches by early Thursday morning. The Wasatch Plateau and Book Cliffs could see total accumulations of up to 10 inches, while the higher elevations of the Wasatch and Uintas may even see amounts reaching 15 inches.
Residents in all affected states are urged to take precautions, prepare for potential disruptions, and monitor local weather updates as these harsh winter conditions develop. Despite the challenges posed by the incoming storm, communities have the opportunity to come together, supporting one another through this winter weather event.