Jamiesfeast – As an atmospheric river moves inland after hitting the West Coast, desert regions in two states might witness unexpected heavy snowfall and a significant drop in temperatures.
California was hit by an atmospheric river on Thursday, resulting in a deluge of rain. As this system moves eastward, it will bring dangerous weather conditions, such as heavy snow and strong winds, to multiple states. Over the weekend, a cold front will also cause temperatures to drop across the western U.S., including areas of the Great Basin Desert in Utah and desert mountains in New Mexico.
According to Michael Anand, a meteorologist from the National Weather Service (NWS), the western U.S. will be significantly impacted over the next 24 to 48 hours.
A special weather statement has been issued for much of New Mexico due to an approaching storm. Residents are being warned that some mountainous regions could experience snowfall of up to 10 inches.
According to a weather alert from the National Weather Service (NWS), the weather conditions in New Mexico, which have been characterized by above normal temperatures and calm and dry weather, are about to change. The NWS predicts that a weather disturbance will approach the region, bringing with it unsettled conditions. As a result, rain and snow are expected to start later today and continue into the evening across western New Mexico. These precipitation events will then spread eastward through Friday.
According to the report, snow levels are expected to be “fairly high” at elevations of 9,000 feet before descending to the valley floor on Friday night and into Saturday.
According to the alert, the northern mountains will experience heavier snowfall in the highest elevations. Above 9,000 feet, it is anticipated that there will be common amounts of 6 to 10 inches of snow.
At elevations above 10,000 feet, the amounts may be higher.
The mountainous desert regions in southwest Utah, particularly in the Brian Head area, will experience heavy snowfall of 12 to 24 inches due to the storm system. In light of this, the NWS has issued warnings to motorists, as travel conditions may be extremely challenging.
The warning emphasized the importance of being prepared for emergencies while traveling. It advised keeping additional supplies such as a flashlight, food, and water in the vehicle.
The desert mountains in Utah often experience heavy snowfall, which is not a rare occurrence.
Both Utah and New Mexico have experienced a series of weather alerts recently. In Utah, residents were warned with a winter weather advisory and a winter storm warning. Meanwhile, in New Mexico, a high-wind watch and winter weather advisory were issued, accompanied by a special weather statement.
Not only did heavy snowfall occur in elevated areas, but the storm also raised concerns about potential flooding in California. Furthermore, a second, more intense atmospheric river is anticipated to arrive on the West Coast on Sunday.