On Friday, Dec. 12, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued additional winter weather warnings and winter weather advisories impacting 19 states throughout the United States. It’s been an active week for the agency, as winter storms have brought record snowfall to areas of the U.S.
The NWS has announced winter weather warnings, watches and advisories impacting 19 states and Washington, D.C., covering the Rockies, Midwest, Great Lakes, Northeast and mid-Atlantic.
These alerts impact millions of Americans as they head into the second weekend of December and are forced to deal with hazardous winter weather amid holiday activities.
Which States Are Under New Winter Storm Warnings
A winter storm warning, according to the National Weather Service, means heavy snow of at least six inches in 12 hours, or at least eight inches in 24 hours, is expected. It’s different from a watch, which the service issues at least 24 hours before the storm and indicates the risk of a hazardous winter weather event has increased, but that its occurrence, location or timing is still uncertain.
The new warnings issued by the NWS for Friday, Dec. 12, are in the states of Alaska, Kentucky, Indiana and Montana, while the watches are in Alaska, Maryland, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia. The agency has also issued advisories for Alaska, Iowa, Michigan, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Virginia and West Virginia.
The state that’s expected to get hit with an upwards of 30 inches of snow is Alaska, with Hyder getting 20 to 30 inches through Monday, December 15. Expect travel in that area to be especially hazardous.
Where Fresh Snow is Hitting the U.S.
While Alaska is used to the snow, other areas of the country that aren’t as familiar with winter weather are still getting hit with this storm. Indiana and central and northern Kentucky woke up to three to five inches of snow on Friday, Dec. 12, which impacted the morning commute.
In Montana, heavy snow is expected through Friday night, with an additional four to seven inches of snow piling up. Iowa, Michigan, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Virginia and West Virginia are also expected to get additional snow on top of the several inches they accumulated over the past week.
When the weather is frigid, it’s best to stay indoors. But, if you have to go outdoors, dress accordingly. “Keep your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes covered in warm, dry clothing,” the American Red Cross notes. “These areas are the first to be at risk for frostbite.”
