From Wyoming to New York, the storm is causing concern for travelers, with roads becoming slick and visibility reduced by blowing snow. Weather experts are urging drivers in affected regions to reconsider travel plans or take extra caution if they must be on the roads.
Heavy Snowfall and Dangerous Winds in the West
The storm’s impact is being felt first in the western U.S., where states like Wyoming, Idaho, and Colorado are bracing for significant snowfall. In Wyoming, snow accumulations could reach up to 24 inches in areas such as the Sierra Madre and Snowy Range. High winds, gusting up to 65 mph, will exacerbate conditions, causing dangerous wind chills and snowdrifts.
According to the NWS, mountain ranges in Wyoming above 10,000 feet could receive even more snow. These severe conditions, expected to last through the weekend, will make driving treacherous, particularly on highways like Interstate 80. Drivers are advised to delay travel if possible or use extreme caution if they must venture out.
Idaho is also in the storm’s path, with snow forecasted to accumulate up to 13 inches in higher elevations. Cities such as Osburn and Wallace may see around 8 inches, and snowfall is expected to continue through Saturday. This will impact both valley and mountain roads, particularly at higher altitudes, where snow and wind could make travel hazardous.
Colorado, known for its winter weather, is preparing for snow across the southwest and northwest San Juan Mountains. Accumulations of 3 to 8 inches are expected, with higher totals in mountainous regions. Strong winds could make visibility near zero at times, making travel dangerous, especially during peak commute hours.
Eastern U.S. Bracing for Snow and Icy Roads
As the storm moves eastward, states like Michigan, New York, and New Mexico are now on alert. Michigan is expecting up to 7 inches of snow in parts of Chippewa County, with wind gusts reaching 35 mph. These conditions will cause blowing snow and could make travel hazardous, particularly during the Thursday morning and evening commutes.
In New York, the eastern Lake Ontario region is anticipating between 3 and 8 inches of snow, with winds up to 35 mph, particularly in the Tug Hill Plateau. In addition, up to 6 inches of snow could fall in parts of Wayne and Onondaga counties, where blowing snow is expected to significantly reduce visibility. Travelers in these areas are urged to avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
New Mexico is also under a winter storm warning, particularly for mountainous regions. Areas like the Sandia and Manzano Mountains could receive 6 to 10 inches of snow, while the higher peaks near the Colorado border may accumulate up to 15 inches. Roads, including Interstate 40 and Interstate 25, are expected to be icy, and travelers are advised to stay alert to rapidly changing conditions.
The storm’s progression is expected to continue through the weekend, with hazardous conditions likely to impact much of the eastern U.S. by Friday. While some areas may experience relief sooner, the storm’s full impact will linger for several days, causing delays in travel and potential disruptions to daily routines.
