December Weather Forecast: Atmospheric River To Bring Heavy Snow, Rain to Northwest Next Week

The latest forecast showed that atmospheric rivers will help bring heavy snow and rain to the Pacific Northwest, causing travel disruptions and cold-related health concerns.

The atmospheric event can likely develop on the weekend and could add more moisture to parts of the West Coast, Northern California and Pacific Northwest.

In other parts of the US, the advisory warned of an upper-level shortwave over the Southwest. Southern Plains and Lower Mississippi Valley can expect stormy conditions in the late week. Residents warned of potential flooding and flash flood threats.

In the Northwestern US, the main dangers are heavy rains, flooding, flash flood risk, heavy snow, freezing conditions and strong winds. Prolonged exposure to cold is not advisable due to the weather conditions.

December Weather Forecast: What Can People Expect This Week?

(Photo : by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
Colder conditions in Mammoth Lakes, California. The atmospheric activity will bring heavy snow and rain to the Pacific Northwest, according to forecasts. Parts of the Cascades can expect heavy snowfall and travel disruptions.

The NWS Weather Prediction Center warned of a winter storm over the Pacific Northwest. The stormy conditions can impact parts of the Cascades. On Friday, residents can anticipate heavier precipitation, including on the weekend.

In Northern Idaho, Eastern Washington and Oregon, strong winds and moderate snow can be possible. Next week, potential river flooding will be likely.

In the Northern Rockies and Great Basin, a mixture of snow and rain will be likely in mountainous and high-elevation areas. Meanwhile, the Atlantic Hurricane Season is expected to end on November 30.

The atmospheric event will help with the stormy conditions in the Pacific Northwest. The colder weather outlook will spread over Spokane, Helena, Boise, Elko, Salt Lake City, Denver, Cedar City, Reno and Fresno.

On the weekend, the snowfall conditions are forecast in the following areas:

Seattle
Spokane
Portland
Medford
Redding
Boise
Helena
Salt Lake City
Casper

On Sunday, the weather pattern will change into rainy conditions. The forecast warned of flooding and windy conditions. Rounds of rain are possible in Seattle, Portland, Medford, Redding, Boise and Spokane.

In the Four Corners, the forecast said that heavy snow could be in the higher elevations. Motorists should be extra careful navigating the roads in the Pacific Northwest due to the weather outlook.

Also Read: Southern US Weather: Damaging Thunderstorms, Heavy Rain Likely in Midweek

Severe Weather Outlook: Where Will Rain and Thunderstorms Unload?

In the South-Central US, the forecast warned of severe weather conditions, especially in Southeastern Texas and Gulf Coast. Homeowners should stay alert for isolated tornadoes and heavy downpours.

The excessive rain is likely in southwestern Louisiana and Greater Houston. The forecast warned of potential flash flood risk concerns and severe weather.

In the Lower Mississippi Valley and Arklatex, severe weather will spread over the said areas. In the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, Middle Mississippi Valley and Central Plains, people can anticipate moderate precipitation.