The weather this fall has been generally calm and warm, but now things are (finally) becoming more interesting. First, the northern lights were visible and gorgeous on Thursday night, which is a rare treat. Second, following some showers early next week, there will be a legitimate chance for snow and cooler air starting around Friday, October 18.

A storm will bring significant snowfall to areas above 2,500 feet in Alaska over the weekend. Early next week, the Coast Range, Cascade Range, and Northern Sierra will see rain develop as the storm track dips southward. During the second half of next week, a cold front will sweep across the Western U.S. with snow possible. The East will also see a chilly pattern with high-elevation snow potential.

Foliage is popping in the Rockies! Colors are changing very quickly. The OpenSnow new "Fall Colors" map and our official chase forecaster "Powderchaser Steve" hits the road to verify the best places to see brilliant colors. In some cases this chase could last several weeks.

Thanks for reading this summer! For the rest of this week, a cold front moving across the Central Rockies will bring showers & t-storms to WY, CO, & NM Wed-Thu while the West Coast states will see a late-season heat wave. Next week, isolated to scattered showers & t-storms develop across the West with continued mild temps. Heading into mid-month, the PNW will trend wetter and cooler.