Winter Weather Warnings in 6 States as 30 Inches of Snow to Hit

The National Weather Service (NWS) had winter weather advisories or winter storm warnings in place for six states early on Friday, predicting that some parts of the country could see up to 30 inches of snow.

Why It Matters

Winter storms can cause power outages, while snow can interfere with travel and create dangerous driving conditions. Freezing temperatures can also pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as young children and older adults.

What to Know

As of Friday morning, winter weather advisories were in place in California, Colorado, Wyoming and New York, while winter storm warnings were in effect in Alaska and Montana.

Areas affected included portions of Central and Western Montana, Northern Colorado, Southern Wyoming, Central California and Northwestern New York.

While snowfall forecasts varied from state to state, in Alaska, snow accumulation over 30 inches was possible, the NWS said in a winter weather message for the Lower Yukon and Innoko Valleys, North Slopes of the Western Alaska Range and Upper Kuskokwim Valley.

Between six and 12 inches was possible in Montana’s Little Belt and Highwood Mountains, with between six and 10 inches possible around Colorado’s Elkhead and Park Mountains and Flat Tops, the service said.

It also said accumulations of four to eight inches were possible in New York’s Wayne and Northern Cayuga Counties.

Portions of Central California could see up to 12 inches at elevations about 8,000 feet.

What People Are Saying

NWS Great Falls said on X: “A cold front will bring a round of snow to North Central and Southwestern Montana tonight through Saturday morning. Be prepared for localized slick travel.”

NWS Buffalo said on X: “A lake effect snow band will produce a burst of snow across the Buffalo metro area this evening. It won’t last long though, with the band shifting southward during the evening hours. Exercise caution if traveling, the snow will result in slick travel and poor visibility.”

NWS Hanford said on X: “A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for much of the Sierra Nevada and Kern County Mountains valid from Saturday through 4 p.m. Tuesday. There is a 40-70 percent chance for a 24 hour accumulation Sunday greater than four inches above 6000 feet.”

What Happens Next

At the time of writing, the latest winter storm warnings were in effect until 3 a.m. Monday.

Forecasts are subject to change. The NWS provides regular updates on its website.

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