Janice R. Andrews
A sprawling storm system is sweeping across the United States, expected to leave a trail of significant weather impacts from the Southwest to the Northeast. Covering roughly 2,600 miles, the storm will bring rain, snow, and severe weather conditions, causing potential travel disruptions and safety concerns through the weekend, according to AccuWeather meteorologists.
Southern California Kicks Off the Storm
The storm began its journey on Sunday, delivering much-needed rain to Southern California, breaking a prolonged dry spell. The region saw an average of one inch of rain, while mountainous areas recorded several inches of snow. As the system moves eastward, it sets the stage for a week of diverse and challenging weather.
Midweek: Southwest Prepares for Snow and Rain
Through Wednesday, the storm will spread rain and mountain snow across parts of Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico. Major routes like Interstate 15 in Utah and Interstate 40 in Arizona and New Mexico may experience hazardous conditions, with snow-covered roads making travel difficult.
Phoenix, Arizona, is poised to receive its first significant rainfall since August, while Flagstaff could see a few inches of snow. Las Vegas, Nevada, may encounter light rain, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, is likely to see rain and snow showers by midweek.
Strengthening Over the Central U.S.
By midweek, the storm will intensify as it moves into the central U.S., bringing more widespread impacts. Snowfall is expected in areas from northern Arizona to southeastern Colorado, northwestern Kansas, and central Nebraska. Snow may persist into the weekend in parts of the Rockies and High Plains, with cities like Santa Fe, New Mexico, Pueblo, Colorado, and Dodge City, Kansas, likely seeing travel impacts due to slippery roads.
Heavy Rainfall and Flood Concerns in the South
To the south and east of the storm’s path, significant rainfall is expected, particularly in drought-stricken areas of Texas. San Antonio and Austin, facing extreme drought conditions, could see several inches of rain, but the rapid downpour may lead to flash flooding.
Rainfall totals from central Texas to western Kentucky could range between 4-6 inches, with isolated areas receiving up to 7 inches in less than 24 hours. Urban flooding and slick road conditions will be key concerns as the storm tracks eastward.
Severe Thunderstorm Threat
The storm also brings the potential for severe thunderstorms. Central Texas could face storms with damaging wind gusts and hail on Wednesday, with southeastern Texas experiencing similar conditions on Thursday.
By the end of the week, the threat of heavy thunderstorms will extend to the southern Appalachians and parts of the Atlantic coast, increasing risks of localized flooding and travel disruptions.
Impact Shifts to the Eastern U.S.
As the storm moves into the eastern half of the country, it will interact with a boundary of warm air to the south and cold air to the north. By Friday, cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland may see snow or a wintry mix. Meanwhile, heavy rain is expected to move through the Ohio and Tennessee valleys, further raising concerns about flooding.
Meteorologists warn that warmer air and rainfall in the mid-Mississippi and Ohio valleys could lead to ice jams on rivers and streams, creating localized flooding as the storm continues its eastward progression.
Northeast to See Mixed Conditions
By the weekend, the storm is expected to bring a combination of rain, snow, and ice to the Northeast. Northern parts of New York and New England may stay dry, while central Appalachians and southern New England could face a mix of freezing rain, snow, and sleet.
Major metropolitan areas like New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., could see heavy rain and icy conditions, likely causing travel delays. Airline disruptions are also anticipated in hubs like Atlanta and Charlotte from Friday into Saturday.
Travel Safety and Preparations
With the storm creating a variety of weather hazards, including snow-covered roads, flash flooding, and severe thunderstorms, travelers should plan ahead and stay informed. Monitoring local weather updates and avoiding unnecessary travel during peak storm activity will be essential for safety.
This powerful storm system is bringing much-needed rain to some areas while creating significant challenges in others. As it makes its way across the country, millions will experience its wide-ranging impacts. Meteorologists will continue to provide updates as the storm evolves, refining forecasts for the affected regions.
