Active pattern ahead for the West

Get ready for a snowy pattern out West as new storms loaded with moisture will be reaching the West Coast on a near-daily basis during the last week of December and the first week of January. Warm temperatures on Monday-Tuesday will result in high snow levels initially and wet/dense snow quality. However, more seasonal temps will return on Wednesday with improving snow conditions as the week progresses.

Check out the 7-day snowfall projection from a blend of weather models. Not a bad way to finish out the calendar year, after what has already been a strong start to the season!

Forecast for Mon, Dec 26 – Tue, Dec 27:

A storm involving an atmospheric river will impact the West on Monday & Tuesday. This storm will contain moisture with subtropical origins, and as a result, snow levels will be high and some ski areas will be dealing with rain. The Interior of British Columbia as well as areas such as Sun Valley and the Tetons will be most favored, though snow quality will be on the wetter/denser side. 

The lake effect snow machine will also continue across the Northeast on Monday & Tuesday with locally heavy snow around the Buffalo, NY area in particular. Otherwise, temperatures will remain below average across the East with lingering arctic air in place. 

Forecast for Wed, Dec 28 – Thu, Dec 29:

A strong storm will shift into the Central and Southern Rockies during this period with heavy snow expected across Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. Another storm will also reach the West Coast with more heavy snow for the Cascades and Sierra along with lower snow levels as colder air arrives. 

A disturbance will move across the Northern Great Lakes and Northern New England on Wednesday-early Thursday with a round of snow showers expected.

Forecast for Fri, Dec 30 – Sat, Dec 31:

Two more storms will move across the West during this period, bringing more snow to nearly all areas with the deepest totals likely across the Sierra and the Central Rockies. Colder air will be established across the West during this period, ensuring low snow levels and better-quality snow compared to early in the week. 

A pattern change will occur across the East as milder air floods the region, resulting in a transition from below-average temperatures to sustained above-average warmth. Rain will also develop across much of the East on Friday night & Saturday. 

Outlook for Sun, Jan 1 – Thu, Jan 5:

An active pattern will continue across the West heading into early January with frequent storms expected. The Sierra and the Central Rockies (including Utah & Colorado) are looking like the most favored areas at this time. The East will remain in a warm pattern with occasional periods of rain possible. 

Thanks so much for reading! Next update on Wednesday (Dec 28).

ALAN SMITH