Bracing for another round of severe weather, the Western United States is seeing intense storms bringing rain, wind, and snow, with some areas expecting up to 8 inches of rain by the end of the weekend. Nine states are currently on alert for hazardous conditions as these storms sweep through the region, impacting local communities from California to Montana.
The National Weather Service predicts heavy rainfall particularly along coastal regions, where cities from Portland, Oregon to Eureka, California could face over 6 inches of rain leading to potential flooding. Forecasts also indicate high winds with gusts reaching up to 70 mph, and coastal high surf advisories have been issued, warning of waves up to 35 feet along the Oregon coast and 15 feet around Southern California.
Accumulating snow is also on the docket, with mountainous areas such as the Sierras and Cascades expecting 1 to 3 feet of snow by Sunday evening. Travel conditions are likely to be dangerous, and motorists are cautioned about potential whiteout conditions and avalanches, especially as avalanche warnings are currently active across several states from Washington to Utah.
Meanwhile, the Southern US is not escaping the severe weather either, as storms moving through eastern Texas threaten tornadoes, damaging hail, and wind gusts also reaching 70 mph near cities like Houston and Lufkin. Tornado watches are currently in effect, and severe thunderstorm warnings are active across northern Texas, on alert for possible tornadic activity.
On Thursday morning, the National Weather Service issued wind advisories across several locations, including the Lower Columbia River. The advisory warned residents to expect southwest winds ranging from 15 to 25 mph, with gusts between 35 to 50 mph. Outdoor objects were advised to be secured to prevent them from being blown away, and extra caution was urged for drivers of high-profile vehicles due to the gusty winds.
Further north, British Columbia felt the aftereffects of severe storms as Environment Canada recently lifted heavy rainfall and strong wind warnings just after Christmas. The province faced powerful winds with gusts recorded at 140 kilometers per hour, peaking at 162 km/h on Sartine Island. The Christmas storms caused significant disruptions, including widespread ferry cancellations and localized power outages impacting over 5,000 residents.
Snowfall warnings remain active for areas like Coquihalla Highway and Highway 3, where motorists are cautioned about accumulating snow--15 centimeters expected on the former and up to 30 centimeters on the latter. Avalanche experts are warning outdoor enthusiasts of extraordinarily dangerous conditions due to rapid snow accumulation, urging caution and preparedness for those venturing outside.
Emily Jones, an avalanche forecaster with Avalanche Canada, described the current conditions as exceptionally hazardous, with avalanche hazards rated at the highest level. "With lots of snowfall and wind, we’re experiencing rapid loading, which makes it very dangerous for those out skiing or snowboarding," Jones noted. Although expectations shift with the weather patterns, she reassured individuals using backcountry routes to remain vigilant and prepared for fluctuated risks.
Residents throughout the effected areas are advised to stay tuned for updated forecasts and emergency alerts, ensuring they are ready for the anticipated severe conditions likely to extend through the weekend.
