On Saturday, January 3, and Sunday, January 4, the National Weather Service (NWS) continued issuing winter storm warnings for parts of the U.S. facing severe winter conditions.
According to the NWS, a large winter weather system is spreading across areas of the West and Northeast, bringing intense snowfall and hazardous wind gusts.
“Travel could be very difficult to impossible,” the NWS warns. “The hazardous conditions could impact this evening through Monday morning commutes. Strong winds could cause tree damage.”
Winter Weather Warnings to Start 2026
Several regions in California are experiencing severe weather. “Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations of six to 10 inches above 4,500 feet,” the National Weather Service in California said. “One to three feet above 5,000 feet, and three to five feet above 6,000 feet. Locally higher amounts at highest peaks. Winds gusting as high as 55 mph.” Snowfall in some areas is expected to average close to two feet.
The affected locations include the West Slope, Northern Sierra Nevada, Western Plumas County, and Lassen Park Counties. The warning remains in place until 4 p.m. local time on Monday, January 5. In higher elevations, snowfall could reach up to five feet, while other areas may experience wind gusts exceeding 100 mph along with blizzard conditions.
In Nevada, Mono County and the Greater Lake Tahoe Area are also under winter storm warnings until 10 a.m. local time Monday. Snow accumulations are forecast to range from one to three feet above 7,000 feet, averaging around two feet.
In New York, Oswego County is under a winter storm warning until 7 p.m. local time on Saturday, January 3. Heavy lake-effect snow is the main concern, with an additional eight to 12 inches expected. Oregon, Wyoming, Utah, and Alaska are also under winter storm warnings through early next week.
What Is a Winter Storm Warning?
So, what exactly does a winter storm warning mean? According to the NWS, it signals expected heavy snowfall of at least six inches within 12 hours, or eight inches within 24 hours. “It can also be issued if sleet accumulation will be at least half an inch,” the agency notes.
An ice storm warning indicates expected ice buildup of at least one-quarter inch. A blizzard warning applies when blizzard conditions—visibility below one-quarter mile due to falling or blowing snow, combined with winds of at least 35 mph—are expected to last for three hours or more.
The CDC advises limiting exposure during extreme cold. “Try to stay indoors during extremely cold weather,” the CDC states. “Make any trips outside as brief as possible, and remember these tips below to protect your health and safety.”
For those who must travel, AAA recommends, “Keep a bundle of cold-weather gear in your car, such as extra food and water, warm clothing, a flashlight, a glass scraper, blankets, medications, and more.”
AAA also urges caution on icy roads. “Always adjust your speed down to account for lower traction when driving on snow or ice.” The organization adds, “Apply the gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. Don’t try to get moving in a hurry and take time to slow down for a stoplight.”
Leave a Reply