The National Weather Service has issued winter storm advisories and warnings for six U.S. states, where snowfall of up to 12 inches is expected between Sunday, December 7, and Monday, December 8.
Alaska, Illinois, Michigan, South Carolina, Virginia and Wyoming are all on alert as winter weather conditions intensify. Snowfall is expected to range from just trace amounts in Chicago to more than a foot in parts of Alaska over the next 24 hours.
Alaska Prepares for Heavy Snow and Strong Winds
Southern Alaskan communities including Elfin Cove and Pelican are forecast to receive between 8 and 12 inches of snow. Meanwhile, Kake and Port Alexander are preparing for 3 to 5 inches of snowfall, accompanied by wind gusts exceeding 40 miles per hour.
According to the National Weather Service, a changing weather pattern is responsible for the worsening conditions.
“A pattern shift is bringing colder air and strong outflow winds into the region through the weekend. When combined with persistent moisture, this setup is leading to significant snow accumulation in the Haines area,” the agency said.
Forecasters also noted that periods of moderate to heavy snow are continuing along the Icy Strait Corridor as an arctic boundary moves south of the Hoonah–Juneau region. Another band of heavier precipitation is expected to arrive by Sunday morning.
Snowfall Expected in Multiple States
Beyond Alaska, several other states are bracing for significant snowfall. In Wyoming, up to 10 inches of snow is expected in the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges. Parts of Michigan, including Central and Western Chippewa counties, could see as much as six inches of snow throughout the day.
The National Weather Service warned that lake-effect snow in the region could cause rapid and unpredictable changes in weather conditions.
“During lake-effect snow events, conditions can shift from heavy snowfall to dry weather within just a few miles. Visibility and road conditions may deteriorate quickly. Drivers and residents should remain cautious and prepared for sudden changes,” officials said.
Parts of South Carolina and Virginia are also expected to receive up to five inches of snow as the winter system moves further south.
