Phoenix, Arizona – A cross-country storm is set to impact the West, Midwest, and South with a mix of rain, snow, strong winds, and potential severe thunderstorms throughout the weekend. Starting in the West, areas are expected to experience a combination of rain and snow, with snowfall projected to reach parts of Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, and northern Illinois by Thursday night.
The storm is also anticipated to bring high winds to the Southwest, moving into the Southern High Plains by Thursday. This poses a hazard for travel, especially with the possibility of blowing dust reducing visibility on highways in the region.
As the storm progresses, it is forecasted to bring rain and higher-elevation snow to the Southwest on Friday, impacting cities like Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. Additionally, a band of snow or rain mixed with snow is expected to stretch from Nebraska to northern Ohio, potentially causing travel delays in areas like Des Moines, Iowa, and Chicago.
Moving into the weekend, the storm will shift towards the South, bringing mainly rainfall. Areas from Dallas and Oklahoma City to New Orleans might experience dampened outdoor plans due to the rain. There is also a chance for isolated severe storms producing large hail in parts of eastern Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and the western Florida Panhandle.
On Sunday, the storm is predicted to impact Southeastern states and northern and central Florida with rain and a few thunderstorms. This could potentially interfere with outdoor activities in cities like Atlanta and Tampa.
In terms of snowfall, the heaviest amounts are expected in the higher elevations of the Rockies, with lighter snowfall reaching areas as far east as Chicago. Rainfall in the South is anticipated to be less significant, with most areas receiving less than an inch. However, parts of northern Florida and southern Georgia may see higher rainfall totals.
Overall, this cross-country storm is expected to bring a variety of weather impacts to different regions, highlighting the need for caution and preparedness as it moves across the country.
