Winter weather warnings have been issued for eight states, with heavy snow, gusty winds, and dangerous travel conditions expected through Thanksgiving.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued full winter storm warnings in Wyoming, Alaska, Colorado, and Utah. Winter weather advisories are also in effect for parts of Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, and Nevada.
In some areas, up to 36 inches of snow could accumulate, with winds reaching speeds of up to 55 mph. The hazardous conditions are expected to significantly impact Thanksgiving travel, with reduced visibility and snow-covered roads making driving conditions treacherous.
Colorado is facing widespread winter storm warnings across its mountain regions, which are expected to see snowfall of 6 to 36 inches, with wind gusts reaching 55 mph. These warnings will remain in place until early Thursday morning.
The Sangre de Cristo Mountains could see similar accumulations, while areas like the Upper Gunnison River Valley are forecast for 8 to 16 inches of snow. Blowing snow could reduce visibility and impact both morning and evening commutes.
Wyoming's Sierra Madre Range and Snowy Range are under a winter storm warning until 11 a.m. Wednesday. Heavy snow of 12 to 24 inches is expected, with wind gusts up to 35 mph near and above the treeline. The NWS has warned that travel could become "very difficult or impossible," and advised travelers to carry emergency supplies such as flashlights, food, and water.
In Alaska, the City and Borough of Juneau could see an additional 3 to 5 inches of snow by Wednesday morning, following 4 to 7 inches already reported. Winter storm warnings remain in effect for Petersburg and Hyder, where a transition to lighter, fluffier snow is expected as temperatures drop. Total accumulations in these areas could reach 11 inches by Thursday morning.
Utah is also under winter storm warnings in its mountain regions, including the Wasatch and Uinta ranges. Additional snowfall of up to 6 inches is expected in some areas through Wednesday evening. The La Sal and Abajo Mountains, located above 8,000 feet, could see totals of 10 to 24 inches, significantly affecting travel across mountain passes.
Winter weather advisories are in place for several other states, with lighter but still disruptive snowfall expected.
Michigan's Chippewa County is bracing for lake-effect snow of 1 to 4 inches through Wednesday afternoon. The heaviest snowfall is forecast for areas north of M-28, where slick roads and icy bridges are likely to complicate travel.
Minnesota's North St. Louis County is under an advisory until Friday morning, with 2 to 4 inches of lake-effect snow expected near Rainy Lake. Drivers in these areas should prepare for slippery roads, particularly on bridges and overpasses.
In New Mexico, the Tusas Mountains above 8,500 feet are forecast for snowfall of 5 to 16 inches, accompanied by wind gusts up to 45 mph. The NWS has cautioned drivers to prepare for visibility issues and potential road closures through Wednesday evening.
Nevada's Ruby Mountains and East Humboldt Range could see an additional 1 to 4 inches of snow through Wednesday, while White Pine County is expecting light accumulations of up to 2 inches. These conditions are likely to make roads slippery and hazardous for travelers.
The widespread warnings and advisories come just a day before the Thanksgiving holiday, when millions of Americans are expected to travel. Authorities have urged residents and travelers in affected areas to stay updated on local weather conditions and carry emergency supplies.
The NWS has highlighted the potential for blowing snow to significantly reduce visibility, particularly in areas with high winds. Travelers are encouraged to check road conditions using local 511 services and to avoid unnecessary trips if possible.
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