NWS meteorologists have warned drivers in California, Nevada, Washington, and Oregon to exercise caution as snowy conditions, strong winds, and reduced visibility are expected to create dangerous travel conditions in mountainous areas through Monday evening. Winter weather advisories have been issued for the Greater Lake Tahoe region, West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada, and parts of the Cascades, with potential for slippery roads, low visibility, and travel delays. Drivers are urged to slow down on major passes where snow accumulation could exceed a foot.
In the Greater Lake Tahoe area, a winter weather advisory has been issued for elevations above 6,500 feet with snow accumulation from 2 to 6 inches and gusty winds reaching up to 45 mph. Similar conditions are expected in Washington’s North Cascades and Okanogan County, with snow accumulations of up to 16 inches and gusty winds of up to 35 mph. Southern Oregon is also facing heavy snow in the Siskiyou Mountains and Southern Oregon Cascades, with up to 16 inches expected in areas above 5,000 feet. Travelers are advised to prepare for difficult travel conditions during the Monday morning and evening commutes.
In Colorado, nearly 40,000 customers were without power following a winter storm that swept through the state, with Denver County being the worst hit. Other surrounding counties, such as Adams, Jefferson, and Arapahoe, also experienced outages. Storm warnings were issued for several other states, including Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, with up to 24 inches of snow expected in Colorado’s mountain regions and up to 20 inches in cities like Matheson, Agate, Hugo, and Limon.
The winter weather warnings highlight the need for drivers to use caution on slick and snowy roads, particularly on major passes in mountainous regions. Slowing down and preparing for hazardous travel conditions can help mitigate the risk of accidents and delays. Motorists should be aware of potential snow accumulation exceeding a foot and be extra vigilant for slippery roads and low visibility. Authorities are urging travelers to anticipate challenging conditions and plan their route accordingly to ensure safe travel through the impacted areas.
As the winter weather continues to unfold in California, Nevada, Washington, and Oregon, it is crucial for drivers to stay updated on the latest advisories and warnings from the NWS. Being proactive in preparing for inclement weather can help minimize the impact on travel plans and ensure the safety of all road users. By heeding the advice of meteorologists and taking necessary precautions, drivers can navigate through snowy and windy conditions with greater ease and avoid potentially dangerous situations on the road.
