Winter Storm Warning as 24 Inches of Snow, 40 mph Winds Approach: 'Dangerous'
The National Weather Service issued new winter storm warnings as 24 inches of snow and dangerous travel conditions strike the United States.
"Meanwhile on the cold side of the frontal boundary, areas of snow are likely across portions of the Intermountain West and Rockies tonight and continuing for the central Rockies into Friday. Locally heavy snow is possible with snowfall accumulations of 6 to 12 inches likely for the higher terrain, with accumulations over a foot possible for a few locations," the National Weather Service said.
24 Inches of Snow, 40 mph Winds Incoming
The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings for just four states on Thursday, March 5: Alaska, Colorado, Montana and Wyoming.
Colorado and Montana are in for the brunt of the storm as the latter could see up to 24 inches of snowfall from Thursday through Friday afternoon. "Travel could be very difficult and tire chains may be required for some vehicles," the NWS office in Great Falls, Montana, said in the winter storm warning. "Those in the backcountry should ensure they are prepared for dangerous conditions."
Meanwhile, much of Colorado is in the eye of another winter storm that threatens to bring heavy snow and dangerous travel. Affected areas include Rocky Mountain National Park, the Medicine Bow Range, Summit County mountains, the Mosquito Range, the Indian Peaks, and surrounding high terrain, including major mountain passes such as Berthoud Pass, Cameron Pass, and the Eisenhower Tunnel.
"Total snow accumulations between 6 and 14 inches, with the heaviest snow expected from Rocky Mountain NP southward. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph, the National Weather Service said in its forecast while warning "travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions will impact the Friday morning and evening commutes."
Those looking to travel in the affected areas were warned to keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in their vehicle in case of an emergency.