NWS Weather Forecast: Heavy Snow to Unload in Great Basin, Rockies As Meteorological Winter Comes Near

The latest forecast warned of heavy snow and a cooler outlook in the Rockies, Great Basin and Pacific Northwest as the Meteorological Winter is near this December.

In the Pacific Northwest, an atmospheric river event will help with the rain and heavy snow in the region. The moisture will also unload in the Northern California and West Coast.

People with planned travel should check the forecasts in the Pacific Northwest before leaving due to the combination of snow and heavy rain. Motorists should watch out for travel dangers, including reduced road visibility, slick travel, foggy conditions and ice-covered roads.

NWS Weather Forecast: Weather Conditions in the Rockies and Great Basin

(Photo : ZOOM Earth Satellite and NESDIS NOAA as of December 1, 2023)
ZOOM Earth Satellite and NESDIS NOAA as of December 1, 2023. Heavy snow is likely in the Rockies, Great Basin and Pacific Northwest this late week as the Meteorological winter comes, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

Residents in the Pacific Northwest feel the widespread cold that is already in the Meteorological Winter. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that the strong atmospheric river will help unload more snow and rain in the region.

On the weekend, residents can anticipate 5 to 10 inches in total rainfall amounts. The rainy outlook can spread over parts of Washington, Seattle and Oregon. The forecast warned that snow levels could increase on Sunday, especially in the Cascades.

People near the river should stay alert for river flooding due to snowmelt. In addition, the threat of heavy snow can spread over the Rockies and Great Basin.

In Colorado, Idaho and Montana, people should stay alert for colder and snowy outlook. Meanwhile, the Weather Prediction Center warned of a significant winter storm in the region. The mountain snow can become dangerous, especially for motorists and hikers.

The stormy conditions can likely spread over the Northwestern US until early next week. The chance of snow and colder conditions is likely in the following areas:

Spokane
Helena
Boise
Elko
Salt Lake City
Reno
Cedar City
Denver
Portland

Meanwhile, the rainy outlook could unload in Seattle, Portland, Medford, Redding and San Francisco. It will help with dry areas in the Western US. On Sunday, homeowners should stay alert for flooding risk, windy conditions and rising snow levels.

Also Read: NWS Weather Forecast: Wintry Mix Outlook to Hit Interior Northeast, Central Plains This Week

Weather Preparations in the Pacific Northwest and the Rockies

Staying prepared with the weather is essential due to threats of winter storms and challenging conditions in the Pacific Northwest and Rockies. The main concerns are extreme cold, freezing rain, blizzards and winter storms.

Homeowners should protect their crops, plants and animals from freezing conditions. Plumbing can be affected by the cold weather, especially in the Pacific Northwest.

In addition, people should have emergency kits at home for potential power outages, frozen conditions and inaccessible roads. The recommended emergency kits are the following: