Western U.S. Remains Soaked From Wintry Weather | WeatherBug
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Western U.S. Remains Soaked From Wintry Weather

March 15, 2023
UPDATED By WeatherBug Meteorologist, Christian Sayles
Widespread flooding remains a concern in California, with pockets of heavy mountain snow across the western U.S.

A pair of disturbances will continue to draw plenty of moisture into the West, yielding high elevation snow from the coastal mountain ranges to the Rockies through this afternoon and evening.

In total, 2 to 4 feet of snow or more will pile up in the Sierra Nevada, while the highest elevations of the Cascades and northern Rockies could also find another 1 to 2 feet of fresh powder on the existing snowpack. Meanwhile, lower elevations across the region could see 2 to 8 inches of snowfall.

Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories remain in place across the West, including parts of central California, Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado and northern New Mexico.

In addition to the snow, there will be plenty of rain to go around in warmer, lower elevation areas. Flood Watches, Warnings, and Advisories continue throughout much of central California into Nevada, as well as east-central Arizona. To add to the trouble, strong winds will be also be a factor in the West. High Wind Warnings, Watches, and Wind Advisories are in place across California, southern Nevada, and western Utah, southern Idaho as well as in parts of Montana and Wyoming. 

Nearly 200,000 customers are still without power this morning across California, largely in the Bay Area counties. 

Most of the rain and snow activity will slide eastward into the central U.S. on Thursday. This will give the western U.S. an opportunity to dry out during the back half of the week.

As for the north-central U.S., a low pressure system will develop and intensify on Thursday over the northern Plains and bring a fresh batch of snow, rain and freezing rain from Nebraska to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Already, there are Winter Weather Advisories and Winter Storm Watches stretching from central Nebraska to northern Michigan. Total snow accumulations will range from 2 to 4 inches, but amounts as high as 6 inches will be possible within heavier bands. A light glaze of ice will be possible on untreated surfaces as well. Another threat will be winds as they may gust up to 50 mph at times. This will create whiteout conditions, so avoid travel if possible. 

It’s never too early to prepare for inclement weather. Simply by having an emergency kit equipped with a weather radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food, water, clean clothes and blankets will go a long way in keeping your family safe, warm and protected. Be sure to check the WeatherBug App or your local weather stations to keep informed on the approaching weather.