Winter Weather Warnings Issued Across 5 States with Up to 18 Inches of Snow Expected"
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a series of winter storm warnings and advisories across multiple states as hazardous conditions show no signs of letting up.
The West Coast has endured a frigid and stormy week, with two weather systems from the Pacific bringing snow, freezing rain, and icy temperatures. These treacherous conditions are expected to persist over the next two days in four states, while parts of the Northeast are also preparing for severe winter weather.
### Washington Faces Heavy Snow
Washington State is under two major winter storm warnings. In Okanogan County, an additional 8 inches of snow is expected by Thursday afternoon, creating travel challenges along State Route 20. Another warning for the West Slopes of the North Cascades and surrounding mountain passes predicts up to 18 inches of snowfall by 4 p.m. local time, with travel in the region likely to become extremely difficult or even impossible.
### Snow and Ice in California
California is also grappling with wintry conditions. Warnings across multiple counties from northern to central California forecast freezing rain between 5 a.m. and 11 a.m. PST on Friday. The NWS has cautioned residents about "slippery sidewalks, roads, and bridges," which could disrupt Friday morning commutes. Additionally, central California could receive up to 11 inches of snow from Thursday evening through Friday night, prompting officials to advise drivers to proceed with caution.
### Storms Sweep Through Oregon and Alaska
In Oregon, the South Central Cascades, including Crater Lake and nearby highways 62, 138, and 230, are forecast to receive 4 to 10 inches of snow, with wind gusts reaching 40 mph by early Thursday morning.
Alaska is also under several weather advisories. The Lower Kuskokwim Valley is bracing for up to 10 inches of snow between Thursday and early Friday, particularly in areas like Georgetown and Sleetmute. Another advisory for regions including Russian Mission and St. Mary’s warns of strong winds and snowfall that could reduce visibility to under half a mile, creating hazardous travel conditions.
### Freezing Rain Targets the Northeast
The Northeast is not spared, as parts of Maine prepare for periods of freezing rain. Slippery sidewalks, roads, and bridges are expected, with the advisory in place from 5 a.m. to 11 a.m. ET on Friday.
Drivers across all impacted regions are urged to exercise caution and plan for delays as winter weather continues to disrupt travel nationwide.