heavy snow warning: Heavy snow warning: Up to 10 inches of snow may shut down travel completely in these locations
The National Weather Service issued warnings for heavy snow, icy conditions and strong winds in six states that include parts of Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont and Alaska. Forecasters say some areas could receive up to 6 inches of snow along with high winds and low visibility, leading to dangerous conditions by Monday.
Travel disruptions and hazardous conditions expected
Meteorologists warn that the widespread system could affect regions from the Northeast to the Pacific, affecting roads, airports and sea lanes. Snow, freezing rain and strong winds are expected to combine to make travel risky or even impossible in some areas.
Authorities warn that extreme conditions could “make travel impossible”, particularly in areas where heavy snowfall and ice drifts are likely to occur between Sunday and the beginning of next week.
Unusual weather contrast across the US
While some parts of the country are bracing for winter storms, other parts are facing extreme temperatures, with temperatures reaching as high as 108°F in some places. This stark contrast highlights the unpredictable and severe weather conditions currently affecting the country.
Hawaii and Alaska under winter warning
Typically, even warmer regions experience wintry conditions. Hawaii’s Big Island peaks remain under a winter storm warning, with up to 3 inches of extra snowfall and wind speeds approaching 35 mph.
Meanwhile, up to 6 inches of snow could fall in parts of Alaska that include Prince of Wales Island, Ketchikan Pass and Sitka. Visibility is expected to be reduced to a minimum and strong winds are expected to disrupt travel by land, sea and air.
Northeast faces snow, ice and slippery roads
Northeastern states, including Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont, are bracing for snowfall and freezing drizzle that could cause slippery and dangerous surfaces.
Western Maine is expected to get 5 to 8 inches of snowfall Sunday through Monday, while other areas could see 2 to 6 inches. Coastal and inland areas, including the Penobscot Valley, could see an increase of 3 to 6 inches Monday morning.
Snowfall totals could reach up to 8 inches in northern New Hampshire, while central areas could see 3 to 6 inches of snowfall along with possible ice drifts.
“Moderate snowfall and periods of low visibility will be the greatest hazards,” the weather service warned, adding that these situations were likely to lead to “hazardous driving conditions.”
Additional snowfall in key areas
In Alaska, places like Hoonah, Sitka and Kake are expected to receive up to 5 inches of snow by mid-Sunday morning, with visibility dropping below a mile. Similarly, Prince of Wales Island and surrounding areas may witness 2 to 5 inches of snowfall accompanied by winds of up to 35 mph.
In Vermont, locations along the eastern slopes of the Green Mountains could get 3 to 7 inches of snow Monday morning.
The Adirondack region of upstate New York is also expected to experience up to 7 inches of snow and ice, which could significantly impact travel Monday morning.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation
The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide timely updates on snowfall totals, ice formation and travel risks. Residents in affected areas are asked to exercise caution and restrict travel as conditions worsen.
FAQ:
Q1. What causes a winter storm?
A strong weather system combining cold air, moisture and wind triggers the storm. This mixture leads to snow, ice and freezing conditions.
Q2. Which areas are most affected?
Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, Hawaii and parts of Alaska are under warning. These regions are expected to experience the most severe conditions.
