Major impacts from heavy snow and ice across the nation as powerful coast-to-coast storm begins December

Following a disruptive Thanksgiving weekend snowstorm, meteorological winter is poised to begin with a strong storm system spanning from coast to coast. This system, emerging Sunday in the Rocky Mountains, is forecasted to continue through Wednesday, potentially affecting airports, highways, and local communities with snow, ice, and rain.

Rockies and Southwestern Snow

Snowfall is expected to develop in parts of the northern Rockies, later moving southward to bring snow showers to Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico before the system progresses into the Plains.

Plains and Midwest Impact

As the storm advances into the Plains, cities including Chicago, St. Louis, and Detroit may experience additional snowfall shortly after the record Thanksgiving snowstorm. Northern Missouri to northern Illinois could see 35 inches of snow, while the Ohio River Valley may accumulate 13 inches.

Ice Concerns in the South

Cold Arctic air will increase the likelihood of ice along major highways in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Areas such as Tulsa, Little Rock, and Fort Smith are under threat for patchy snow and potential icy conditions, which could impact morning travel on Monday.

Northeast Rain and Wintry Mix

The storm is expected to move into the Northeast, delivering primarily rain with a possible wintry mix across the Mid-Atlantic and New England. Ice hazards may appear in West Virginia and the mountains of Virginia, while inland areas of Maine and Pennsylvania could see snow, though totals remain uncertain and will become clearer in the coming days.

Ongoing Coverage

The trajectory of this storm will determine which regions experience rain versus snow. Continuous updates will be provided as meteorologists track the storms progress and the resulting impacts nationwide.

Author: Sophia Brooks