The Season’s First Snow Is Here for These 6 States

Winter is making its first appearance of the season in parts of the central and northern U.S., bringing snow to the High Plains and Rockies to start the week.

A storm system that recently soaked Southern California with heavy rain is now pushing into colder air as it moves east. As it does, it’s bringing the first snowfall of the season to parts of Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska, North Dakota and Montana.

For many communities, totals will be fairly light. But slick roads, gusty winds and refreezing slush could still make travel tricky through Tuesday.

Where the Snow Is Falling

The storm is tracking from the Rockies toward the Dakotas, western Minnesota and eastern Montana. As colder air wraps into the system, snow is developing at lower elevations than usual, not just in the highest mountains.

The best chance for accumulating snow stretches from northwestern Nebraska and eastern Wyoming into southwestern North Dakota. Higher ground in Wyoming and Colorado is more likely to see a mix of rain and wet snow, and Denver is expected to miss most of the snow.

Snow was already falling Monday morning in North Dakota. The National Weather Service in Bismarck reported light snow in the southwestern part of the state, with light accumulations on grassy surfaces in some areas.

In Montana, a few inches of snow are expected mostly in the mountains of the southwest and along the Continental Divide. Forecasters warned drivers to watch for snow-covered roads at higher elevations.

The Black Hills Could See the Most Snow

Some of the heaviest totals are expected in western South Dakota. AccuWeather senior meteorologist Bob Smerbeck said there is the potential for several inches of snow in the Black Hills.

Rapid City could also pick up a slushy accumulation, especially on grass and other non-paved surfaces. Monday is expected to bring the heaviest snow there.

Because the ground is still relatively warm this early in the season, much of the snow on paved roads may melt or turn to slush. Grassy areas, rooftops and car tops are more likely to turn white.

Wind and Refreezing Roads Tuesday

The snow is only part of the story. As temperatures drop Monday night into Tuesday, any slush left on roads could freeze into hard, icy ruts.

Strong winds are also on the way. Gusts up to 60 mph are possible in parts of the region on Tuesday, which could create dangerous crosswinds for tall vehicles, RVs and trucks pulling trailers.

Drivers traveling across the northern Plains on Tuesday should be prepared for slick spots, especially on bridges, overpasses and roads that don’t get much sun.

Alaska Faces a Bigger Winter Storm

While the snow in the lower 48 will be fairly modest for most areas, parts of Alaska are dealing with a much more serious winter storm.

The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings through Monday evening for portions of interior Alaska, where 8 to 16 inches of snow could pile up. Wind gusts could reach 35 mph, reducing visibility and making travel difficult.

Tips for Driving in the Season’s First Snow

The first snow of the season often catches drivers off guard, since many people haven’t driven in winter conditions for months. A few simple steps can help:

• Slow down: Give yourself extra time to reach your destination, and reduce your speed on snowy or slushy roads.

• Leave extra space: Increase your following distance, since it takes longer to stop on slick pavement.

• Check your vehicle: Make sure your tires have good tread, your windshield wipers work well and your washer fluid is topped off.

• Pack an emergency kit: Keep a blanket, flashlight, phone charger, snacks and an ice scraper in your car.

• Watch for black ice: Be especially careful on bridges and overpasses, which freeze faster than other roads.

For most of the central U.S., this first taste of winter will be brief. Still, it’s a good reminder that the snow season has officially begun, and it’s a good time to make sure you and your car are ready for what’s ahead.

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