Severe Winter Storm Triggers Alerts in 5 States: Up to 16 Inches of Snow and Extreme Freezes

Winter storm triggers alerts

Up to 16 inches of snow

Extreme freezes in the north

The US National Weather Service (NWS) issued multiple winter storm alerts early Tuesday for at least five states, as a major storm system threatens to bring up to 16 inches of snow, strong wind gusts, and dangerous travel conditions.

California, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, and Washington are under warnings and special advisories due to heavy snowfall in mountain regions and subzero temperatures across the northern US.

Authorities urged residents to take immediate precautions against reduced visibility, icy roads, and potential vegetation damage caused by severe freezes.

Heavy snowfall in Sierra Nevada and Highway 395

Winter storm alerts have been issued across five US states-Photo: Shutterstock

The most significant impact is expected in central and northern California, where winter storm warnings have been issued for high-altitude areas.

In Mono County, the NWS warned that snow accumulation could reach up to 16 inches at elevations above 7,000 feet.

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For the Sierra Nevada crest, forecasts are even more severe, with between one and two feet of snow expected in less than 24 hours.

Communities near Highway 395 could see between one and four inches of rain, which combined with the cold could lead to ice formation on roads.

“Travel could be very difficult, especially over mountain passes such as Sonora and Tioga. Hazardous conditions will affect Tuesday morning and evening commutes,” the NWS warned.

Winter storm alerts across Nevada and western regions

The winter storm alerts have expanded to Nevada, where areas like Lake Tahoe, Reno, Carson City, and Minden are under winter weather advisories.

Similar warnings were issued for the White and Inyo Mountains, as well as the Sheep Range and Spring Mountains, where significant snowfall and slick road conditions are expected.

The NWS said the heaviest snow will occur between Tuesday morning and afternoon, with snowfall rates reaching up to two inches per hour.

“Wind gusts could knock down tree branches,” the advisory added.

Dangerous freezes in North Dakota and the Pacific Northwest

While the West contends with snow, the northern US faces dangerously low temperatures, according to the winter forecast.

In North Dakota, frost advisories were issued with temperatures dropping to -25°F in rural areas.

Oregon and Washington were also placed under freeze warnings, with potential damage to crops and vegetation.

“The cold could kill crops and sensitive plants. Take measures now to protect tender vegetation from the frost,” the NWS advised in one of its public statements.

Authorities urge caution

Regional NWS offices have shared public warnings about hazardous road conditions and freezing temperatures in the US as part of their winter forecast.

The NWS Sacramento office noted: “Moderate snowfall expected in the Sierra through Wednesday morning, with travel delays, slippery roads, and chain controls likely.”

Meanwhile, Portland’s NWS office cautioned: “Clear skies, light winds, and lower temperatures mean one thing… frost.”

When will the winter storm alerts end?

As of publication, the latest winter storm warning remained in effect until 5 p.m. Wednesday.

The NWS will continue to update forecasts through its official website and social media as the winter system moves eastward.

Authorities are urging the public to check local conditions and avoid unnecessary travel over the next 48 hours, according to Newsweek.