Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah Face Heavy Snow Risk From Dec. 25–31 as Western Mountains Brace for Multiple Feet of Snow
WESTERN UNITED STATES — A major winter shift is taking shape across the West as Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico are all placed under elevated risk for heavy snowfall from December 25 through December 31. Forecasters highlight high-risk zones in the Cascades and Sierra Nevada, where multiple feet of snow are likely, alongside moderate and slight risk regions stretching across much of the interior West.
Meteorologists say back-to-back storm systems fueled by Pacific moisture will bring persistent snow to mountain regions, significantly building early-season snowpack while creating hazardous travel conditions leading into the New Year holiday.
Cascades and Sierra Nevada Under Highest Risk for Extreme Snowfall
The highest-impact zones include the mountain ranges of Washington, Oregon, and California, where storms on December 25 and December 27–28 are expected to deliver multiple feet of accumulation. Ski resorts will benefit from deep new snow totals, but travel through major passes such as Snoqualmie, Stevens, Donner, and Tioga may be extremely challenging or impossible during peak hours.
Forecast concerns include:
- Rapid snow buildup
- Whiteout conditions
- Avalanche risk
- Multi-day travel disruptions
Interior Western States Face Moderate and Slight Snow Risks
States including Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and Nevada are under a moderate risk of heavy snow between December 25–31, signaling widespread potential for winter travel issues. Mid-elevation terrain may receive prolonged snow periods from multiple storm waves.
Farther south, Arizona and New Mexico fall under a slight risk for heavy snow, especially from December 25–31 as colder air dips south and allows snow levels to fall toward elevated desert regions and high plateaus.
Travel Impacts vs. Snowpack Benefits
The developing pattern is excellent news for Western snowpack, which has lagged early this season. Several feet of new snow could significantly improve water supply conditions heading into 2026.
However, holiday travelers throughout these states should expect difficult driving conditions, long delays, and intermittent pass closures.
Why This Matters for Illinois
Large winter systems impacting the West often influence atmospheric patterns that eventually move into the Midwest. Illinois may see downstream effects from these storms as we head into January.
For updates on national winter weather and Midwest impacts, continue following NapervilleLocal.com.
Author: Avery Hughes Category: Naperville News & Weather Reporter
If you want a shorter breaking update version or a state-by-state snowfall breakdown, I can prepare that as well.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.