Several states are bracing for up to a foot of snow this week, with heavy rainfall also expected across many regions of the U.S.
Why it matters: The upcoming storm could significantly impact travel and outdoor activities, especially in mountainous areas. Weather warnings have been issued across multiple states.
As of September 28, 2026, several states are expecting snowfall of up to 12 inches, along with heavy rain.
A Nor’easter has caused widespread flooding and strong waves on the East Coast over the weekend, contributing to the current weather conditions.
Tropical moisture from Hurricane Polo is moving northward, bringing showers and thunderstorms with heavy rain to the Southwest and Rockies.
Driving the news: The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings for various states due to anticipated heavy snow and rain. The forecast predicts that heavy snow will begin Monday night, leading to potentially slick travel conditions.
In Alaska, up to six inches of snow is possible through Wednesday, with heavy snow expected to cause slick travel along Isabel Pass.
Washington's higher elevations, particularly Mount Baker, could see up to 16 inches of snow from Monday night through Wednesday.
Colorado experienced its first snowfall of the season last week, with ski areas like Telluride and Wolf Creek reporting fresh snow.
State of play: Colorado's snowfall forecast indicates that some of the highest peaks may receive between 3 to 6 inches of snow from Monday to Thursday morning. There is a 10 percent chance that some areas could see more than that.
The most likely scenario suggests that peaks in southwest Colorado could receive 6 to 8 inches of snow, with a small portion of the southern Collegiate Peaks near Salida potentially receiving over 12 inches.
Heavy rainfall is also expected in other areas, with localized predictions of up to 6 inches of rain, which increases the risk of flooding.
The biggest weather impacts are anticipated between Tuesday evening and Thursday morning, according to the NWS.
The big picture: This week’s weather is characterized by a combination of heavy rain and snow across various regions, influenced by a Nor’easter and tropical moisture.
Widespread rainfall of 3-6 inches is expected, particularly across the Southern to Central Plains, with some areas experiencing higher totals.
Outdoor recreation enthusiasts are advised to prepare for potential storms, especially in high-elevation areas where snow is likely to accumulate.
Travelers should be cautious, as slick roads and flooding conditions are expected in affected areas.
What they're saying: Weather experts stress the importance of preparation as conditions evolve. “Hikers will want to plan ahead for the moisture,” the NWS advises, emphasizing the need for waterproof layers and traction gear.
Officials also warn against traveling in flood-prone areas, especially near burn scars and along moving bodies of water.
As the storm approaches, residents are encouraged to stay informed through the National Weather Service's updates.
By the numbers: The snowfall and rainfall predictions highlight the severity of the storm.
Alaska could see up to 6 inches of snow, with Washington's Mount Baker potentially accumulating 16 inches.
In Colorado, the forecast suggests 3 to 6 inches of snow on high peaks, with a slim chance of up to 12 inches in specific areas.
Heavy rain could lead to localized totals of 6 inches in parts of Colorado, increasing the risk of flooding.
What's next: As the storm develops, monitoring will continue to adjust forecasts and warnings accordingly.
Residents are urged to stay updated on changing conditions and prepare for both snow and rain.
The NWS will provide continuous updates, especially as the storm hits its peak intensity between Tuesday evening and Thursday morning.
Travelers should plan routes carefully, considering possible road closures due to snow and flooding.