There are a lot of storms going on in the Pacific Northwest and BC right now. In the last 24 to 48 hours, Whistler has seen 2 feet of snow. Mount Baker says it has gained 18 inches in 24 hours. Many of Whistler’s top trails were closed on Saturday because of strong winds.
Areas in interior BC have experienced lower snowfall amounts. Whistler will continue to receive snowfall until Tuesday, with an expected additional accumulation of 12-17 inches by Tuesday morning. The Cascades in Washington and Oregon will remain within the snowfall pattern, with the northern areas, such as Mt Baker, seeing more favorable conditions. Central and southern regions can expect improved snowfall from Sunday to Tuesday.
Temperatures in the Cascades will steadily decline as the storm cycle progresses, with quality improving until Tuesday. The Cascades will see increased winds Monday night.
A low-pressure system is expected to move across Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, and Utah by Tuesday-Wednesday. This weather system is likely to bring significant snowfall to areas in northern and western Idaho, particularly the Teton Range, with over a foot of snow possible. The Wasatch range will also experience snowfall later on Tuesday and into Wednesday. There is a chance that the Cottonwoods might benefit from some lake effect snow as well.
The models are suggesting that there may be a closed low scenario, specifically a stationary front, which could stall out in New Mexico. If this occurs, there is a possibility of significant snowfall accumulating in the Front Range of Colorado due to the wraparound effect and upslope flow. Additionally, areas in New Mexico and southern Colorado might also experience substantial snowfall.
According to various models, the Front Range Foothills and Divide area mountains in Colorado could potentially receive over 2 feet of snow. While it is still too early to make an accurate forecast, we are confident that there will be significant snowfall in Colorado, particularly near the Divide. Additionally, other areas in the western and northern parts of the state can expect to see snow as well. New Mexico is also expected to receive snowfall in the coming days.
