A strong spring storm is on its way to the Plains and Midwest this week. This weather system could bring high winds and snow, leading to blizzard conditions in some areas. The storm is named Winter Storm Lola.
The National Weather Service has issued winter weather alerts for regions from the Rockies to the upper Midwest. Blizzard warnings are already in effect for parts of northeast Colorado and western Nebraska. Other areas might see their weather alerts upgraded as the storm progresses.
While Lola isn’t expected to drop heavy snow overall, dangerous travel is likely. Blowing snow and strong winds can cause whiteout conditions, making it hard to see while driving. If you’re in a region with warnings, it’s best to stay off the roads.
Here’s what to expect:
Monday-Monday Night: Most of the snowfall will still be over the Rockies. By tonight, rain may switch to snow in the western High Plains. Winds could gust up to 50 mph, creating possible visibility issues, especially in mountain areas.
Tuesday-Tuesday Night: Snow or rain transitioning to snow will spread eastward into the Central Plains and Midwest. Winds could reach up to 70 mph in some areas, contributing to hazardous travel.
Wednesday-Wednesday Night: The threat of rain switching to snow will continue in the upper Midwest and spread to the Great Lakes and Ohio River Valley. Cities like Minneapolis, Chicago, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh may see some snowfall.
In terms of snowfall amounts, many places will get less than 6 inches. However, localized bands of heavier snow may occur, leading to more significant totals in some spots.
Please stay updated and heed any warnings from local authorities as the storm unfolds. Stay safe out there!
Written by Sara Tonks, a meteorologist with a background in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences.
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