This Week's Snow Forecast: States to Watch

As temperatures drop across the country, many are wondering if snow is on the way. You clicked to find out which states could see snowfall this week, and we have the breakdown. We’ll explore the regions with the highest potential for snow based on current weather patterns and explain the systems driving these forecasts.

Understanding the National Weather Pattern

To figure out where it might snow, we first need to look at the big picture. This week, the forecast across the United States is influenced by a few key factors. Typically, the jet stream, a high-altitude river of air, dictates where cold, arctic air moves. When this cold air collides with moisture, it creates the perfect conditions for snow. Forecasters are currently tracking cold fronts moving out of Canada and moisture coming in from the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The interaction of these systems will determine who sees snow and who just gets cold rain.

Remember, weather forecasting is complex, and predictions can change. This guide provides an overview of the most likely areas, but for real-time updates, always check with the National Weather Service (NWS) or your trusted local meteorologist.

Regions with High Potential for Snowfall

Based on typical seasonal patterns and recent forecasts, several regions across the country have a significant chance of seeing snow this week. We’ve broken it down by area so you can see if your state is on the list.

The Rocky Mountains and Intermountain West

This region is a reliable bet for early-season snow, and this week is no exception. The high elevations in the Rockies are prime locations for accumulating snowfall as Pacific storm systems move inland and are forced up over the mountains.

  • Colorado: The mountains of Colorado are a focal point for significant snowfall. Ski resorts like Vail, Aspen, and Breckenridge often measure snow in feet, not inches. Areas along the I-70 mountain corridor could see difficult travel conditions. Denver and the Front Range may see flurries or light accumulation if the storm system is strong enough.
  • Utah: The Wasatch Mountains, famous for their light, powdery snow, are expected to receive several inches. Salt Lake City and surrounding valleys have a moderate chance of seeing accumulation, which could impact morning commutes.
  • Wyoming and Montana: These northern states are directly in the path of cold air plunging south from Canada. Widespread light to moderate snow is possible across both states, especially in higher elevations like Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
  • Idaho: Central Idaho’s mountains, including the Sawtooth Range, are also poised to receive snow, benefiting ski areas like Sun Valley.

The Upper Midwest and Great Lakes

The Great Lakes region is famous for its “lake-effect” snow. This happens when frigid arctic air moves over the relatively warmer waters of the Great Lakes, picking up moisture and dumping it as heavy snow on the downwind shores.

  • Michigan: The Upper Peninsula and the western coast of the Lower Peninsula are classic lake-effect snow zones. Cities like Marquette, Traverse City, and Grand Rapids should be on alert for bands of heavy snow that can create rapidly changing road conditions.
  • Wisconsin and Minnesota: While not as prone to heavy lake-effect snow as Michigan, these states often see “clipper” systems. These are fast-moving, low-pressure systems that drop a quick coating of light, fluffy snow. Northern parts of both states have the highest probability.
  • Northern New York: The areas east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, such as Buffalo, Rochester, and the Tug Hill Plateau, are some of the snowiest places in the country. If the wind direction is right, these areas could see significant, localized snowfall this week.

The Northeast and New England

The Northeast is bracing for a potential pattern change that could bring the season’s first widespread snowfall to some areas.

  • Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine: The interior and northern parts of these states are the most likely candidates. The Green Mountains in Vermont and the White Mountains in New Hampshire could see several inches, delighting skiers and winter enthusiasts.
  • Massachusetts and Connecticut: While coastal areas may see a cold rain, the higher elevations in western Massachusetts (the Berkshires) and northwestern Connecticut (the Litchfield Hills) have a chance of seeing wet snow, especially overnight when temperatures are at their lowest.
  • Pennsylvania: The Laurel Highlands and the Pocono Mountains are areas to watch. These higher-elevation regions often get snow when valleys see only rain.

How to Get the Most Accurate Local Forecast

While this overview gives you a good idea of which states to watch, weather is intensely local. A forecast for your state doesn’t mean your specific town will see snow. For the most accurate, up-to-the-minute information, it is essential to use reliable sources.

  • The National Weather Service (NWS): Your best resource is the official NWS website (weather.gov). You can enter your zip code for a detailed, 7-day forecast that is constantly updated by professional meteorologists.
  • Local TV News: Your local television meteorologists provide forecasts tailored specifically to your viewing area, including detailed radar and hour-by-hour predictions.
  • Weather Apps: Reputable weather apps can provide alerts and forecasts directly on your phone. Look for apps that use data from the NWS or other trusted meteorological organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Winter Storm Watch and a Warning? A Winter Storm Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a significant winter storm. It’s time to prepare. A Winter Storm Warning is issued when a hazardous winter storm is imminent or already happening. It’s time to take action and stay off the roads if possible.

What is a “clipper” system? An Alberta Clipper is a fast-moving storm system that originates in Alberta, Canada. It typically doesn’t have a lot of moisture, so it brings a quick burst of light, fluffy snow and gusty winds, followed by a blast of very cold air.

Why does elevation matter so much for snow? Temperature decreases with altitude. For every 1,000 feet you go up, the temperature typically drops by about 3 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. This is why mountains or hills can get snow while a nearby valley at a lower elevation gets rain, even if the difference is only a few hundred feet.