Winter weather warnings for 14 states with 7 feet of snow to hit

Winter storm warnings and advisories are in place for 14 states, with up to 7 feet of snow to hit some mountain areas, bringing travel chaos just before Thanksgiving.

The six warnings cover parts of Colorado, Idaho, Alaska, California, Oregon and Nevada, while warnings cover areas of Michigan, Maine, Wyoming, New York, Wisconsin, Vermont, New Mexico and Minnesota. Many will be in place until Wednesday, in a week when millions of Americans plan to travel to celebrate Thanksgiving with their families.

Hanford’s National Weather Service (NWS) office predicts snow accumulations of up to 7 feet in the highest mountains in central California, while Las Vegas’ National Weather Service (NWS) office predicts about 6 feet of snow accumulation at the highest peaks on the slopes of the eastern Sierras in Nevada as wind gusts reach 40 mph.

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“Travel will become difficult to impossible due to snow and blowing snow,” the NWS said. “Roof damage is possible due to the weight of heavy snow.”

Several other warnings warned people about travel, including one covering the West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park Counties.

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“Snowy roads, chain checks and travel delays are likely, resulting in very difficult travel at times above 5,500 feet,” Sacramento’s NWS said.

Meanwhile, in Colorado, Denver’s office warned of “significant travel disruptions and road closures” with snow “relatively persistent” from Monday through late Wednesday night.

In California, where a storm warning covers a central part of the state, roads “and especially bridges and overpasses” are expected to be “slick and dangerous,” making travel “very difficult to impossible.”

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The Hanford NWS office said, “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1 .

“People are encouraged to stay indoors until conditions improve. If you must go outside, dress in layers. Multiple layers of clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Cover exposed skin to reduce the risk of frostbite or hypothermia Gloves, a scarf, and a hat will prevent you from losing your body heat.

“People should postpone all journeys if possible. If absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Leave plenty of space between you and the motorist in front of you and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially careful on hills or curves. Make sure your car is winter-ready and in good condition.”

An advisory covering parts of northern New York and central and eastern Vermont also warned of difficult travel, with “icy road conditions” expected to “impact the Tuesday morning commute.”

Drivers have been asked to use caution while traveling and be aware of the latest road conditions for the state.

Newsweek has contacted the NWS for comment.