Winter Forecast: El Niño Returns with a Bang
AccuWeather’s lead long-range expert, Paul Pastelok, has been eagerly looking ahead to the upcoming winter season and the potential impacts of El Niño on the forecast. And it seems his predictions are already coming true, as the nation braces itself for the first significant snowstorm of the season.
Forecasters have warned that the storm will initially hit lightly populated portions of the Pacific Northwest and northern Rockies before shifting into the northern Plains. The storm is expected to last from Tuesday to Thursday and is set to disrupt travel in at least six states. AccuWeather even suggested that “near-blizzard conditions” could be possible, with the National Weather Service predicting up to 2 feet of snow in certain areas.
As the storm approaches, Winter storm warnings and watches have been put in place for portions of the Cascades and northern Rockies. The weather service in Great Falls, Montana, issued a statement cautioning residents about the potential disruptions and urged those in the backcountry to be prepared with the appropriate knowledge and gear.
Meteorologist Joseph Bauer from AccuWeather advised people to take the necessary precautions early in the week. He stated, “Time should be taken early this week to prepare by unpacking winter gear like shovels, coats, hats, and gloves. It can be a good idea to start up snow removal equipment like snow blowers to ensure they function properly.”
Gusty winds are expected on Thursday, leading to blizzard-like conditions across the Dakotas with blowing and drifting snow and reduced visibility, according to Bauer.
Despite the snowstorm’s impact, it won’t be the end of the weather woes for the affected regions. Bitter cold temperatures are predicted to follow in the storm’s wake. An Arctic air mass is set to bring the coldest air of the season, with temperature readings 15-35 degrees below the historical average in Montana and Wyoming by Thursday night. In the northern Rockies, this could result in the first sub-zero readings of the season, while the Northwest and northern Plains can expect low temperatures in the single digits and teens throughout the weekend.
So, as winter makes its grand debut, it’s important for residents in the affected regions to stay prepared and take necessary precautions. From unpacking winter gear to maintaining snow removal equipment, every little step can make a big difference in dealing with the challenges brought on by the season’s first major snowstorm and the subsequent bitter cold. Stay safe and warm, everyone!