Tens of thousands of Californians are waking up without power following a significant snowstorm that hit California and Nevada, leading to the closure of an interstate. Blizzard warnings are still in effect in many parts of the Sierra Nevada mountains, with some areas expecting up to 12 feet of snow.
This storm, while not classified as a 'power blizzard,' is considered the most substantial of the winter season. The heavy snowfall is a welcome sight as California approaches the end of its wet season, providing much-needed moisture for the region.
As of yesterday morning, reports indicated 52 inches of snow had already fallen, with additional snowfall expected. Yesterday saw the peak of the storm, with more snow forecasted for today, albeit in lesser amounts. Some areas may still receive another one to two feet of snow. A brief respite is expected tomorrow before another system moves in on Monday and Tuesday, potentially bringing an additional one to three feet of snow.
This pattern of snowy conditions and wet weather is anticipated to persist across much of the Western United States in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Florida experienced severe storms this morning, with the potential for more severe weather. However, temperatures in other parts of the country are unusually warm for this time of year. Chicago recorded a high of 71 degrees on March 3rd, breaking records. The southern regions are also experiencing above-average temperatures, with the eastern half of the country expected to remain warm over the next three days.