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US States Brace for Snow, Rain, and Fierce Winds
8 Nov
Summary
- Heavy snow possible in parts of California, Oregon, and Nevada.
- A storm may bring rain and strong winds to the West Coast.
- NOAA defines heavy snow as 4+ inches in 12 hours or 6+ inches in 24 hours.
A recent map from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates potential "heavy snow" in three US states next week. This storm could also deliver substantial rain and powerful winds to the West Coast.
The US Hazards Outlook Map, released on November 6, 2026, covers the period from November 14 to 20. Areas in pink, encompassing much of Eastern and Northern California, Southern Oregon, and Western Nevada, are at risk of heavy snow on November 14 and 15.
NOAA defines "heavy snow" as accumulations of four or more inches within 12 hours, or six or more inches within 24 hours. High elevations in the Klamath Mountains and Sierra Nevada Mountains face a "moderate risk" of heavy snow on November 14 and 15.
Additionally, a "slight risk" of heavy snow is forecast for high elevations in the Cascades, Northern Intermountain, Great Basin, and parts of the Central and Northern Rockies between November 14 and 17.
The West Coast anticipates a "potent surge of moisture," potentially bringing heavy rain, mountain snow, and strong winds. Southwest Oregon and Northern/Central California have a "moderate risk" on November 14 and 15, with strong coastal winds possible for Washington, Oregon, and California.
Parts of the Northeast and northern Mid-Atlantic might experience strong winds on November 14 and 15. Cold nights are also expected in regions like the Ohio and Tennessee valleys, the Southeast, and the Mid-Atlantic coastal plain, with some areas possibly seeing their first frost or freeze of the season, though this is occurring later than usual.
