Western New York is experiencing severe winter weather, prompting travel advisories and bans in several areas, including Erie, Genesee, Wyoming, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties. A Lake Effect Snow Warning is in effect, and a State of Emergency has been declared by Governor Kathy Hochul. Specific travel bans and advisories are in place for various towns and routes, with updates expected as conditions change.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Oregon and Washington Cascades, with heavy snowfall expected starting Friday night. Up to 15 inches of snow could hit areas like Government Camp and Ski Bowl initially, with a Winter Storm Warning in effect for the South Oregon Cascades and Siskiyou Mountains, where up to a foot of snow and 40 mph wind gusts are anticipated. Major passes along Interstate 5 will be impacted, and more snow is forecasted for next week. Travelers are advised to carry traction devices and check road conditions on TripCheck.com.
New Mexico is experiencing an active start to 2024 with a series of winter storms bringing rain, thunderstorms, and snow across the state. The first storm will affect southern New Mexico south of I-40, followed by a stronger system that could cause travel disruptions with snow reaching valley floors, including the Albuquerque Metro. After a brief respite, another storm is expected to bring even colder temperatures and more snow by Sunday night, with highs below freezing in some areas the following Monday.
The National Weather Service has issued winter weather alerts for parts of Alaska and northwestern Montana due to a series of storm systems expected to bring strong winds, heavy snow, and potential blizzard conditions. A climatologist in Anchorage, Alaska, captured footage of a rare "snownado," while the NWS warns of difficult travel conditions, reduced visibility, and the risk of black ice. While Alaska faces severe weather, the rest of the U.S. is expected to experience milder conditions, with minimal travel disruptions for New Year's Day.