Weather
Denver-based meteorologist Chris Tomer is one of the most accurate forecasters we know. Check out and subscribe to his mountain weather forecast videos to see where North America will get the most snow.
“Tahoe moderate to heavy snow accumulation 12/12 and 2nd storm system 12/13-12/14 with weak/moderate intensity atmospheric river moisture contribution.
The initial storm system races through UT/CO on 12/13 but is moisture starved.
Northeast, lake-effect 12/12 then light to moderate snow accumulation 12/17 & 12/19.Snow Timeline:
Wasatch: 12/13 (L), 12/14-12/15(L/M)
Tetons: 12/13(L), 12/14-12/15(M/H), 12/17(M)
Colorado: 12/13(L), 12/15(L), 12/17-12/18(L)
Tahoe: 12/12(M/H), 12/13-12/14(H), 12/16(M)
Interior BC: 12/13(L), 12/14(M/H), 12/18(M)
Northeast: 12/16(L), 12/17(L/M), 1219(L/M)”
Here are the main highlights from the forecast, but please check out the full video for a detailed forecast, more resort totals, and support for Chris Tomer.
Lake Tahoe and Sierra Nevada
Snow is falling across Lake Tahoe, with snow levels around 6,000 feet. Moderate to heavy snow accumulations are expected in the area. The current storm system will bring 6 to 10 inches of snow from Mammoth to Tahoe, potentially more accumulation around Mount Shasta.
Utah and Colorado
Utah’s Wasatch Range may see light snow accumulation on December 13, followed by light to moderate accumulations on December 14 and 15. Alta Utah could receive about 6 inches of snow between December 14 and 15, making Sunday potentially a good ski day.
Colorado is expected to experience lighter snow events. Vail Pass might see 1-2 inches of accumulation on Friday afternoon and night, with another chance of 1-2 inches on Sunday afternoon. Colorado seems to be just outside this forecast’s direct flow of the major storm systems.
Pacific Northwest and Interior British Columbia
The Pacific Northwest is forecasted to receive 4 to 8 inches of snow through tomorrow. Interior British Columbia, particularly around Revelstoke, could see up to 15 inches of snow from December 14 to 21.
Idaho and Wyoming
Sun Valley and Brundage in Idaho are expected to receive heavy snow accumulation, potentially a foot or more. The Tetons in Wyoming are also in line for significant snowfall, with a forecast of 1 to 2 feet of accumulation between December 14 and 21.
Northeast
Lake effect snow is currently affecting areas near the Great Lakes. Two storm systems could bring light to moderate accumulation to Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and Upstate New York. Depending on the storm track, many locations in these areas might see 6 to 8 inches of snow, possibly heavier amounts along the coast.
Overall Outlook
The period from December 14 through 21 looks promising for many locations across the Western United States. Skiers and snowboarders should watch forecasts, particularly for areas like the Sierra Nevada, Interior British Columbia, Idaho, and the Tetons, which are expected to receive significant snowfall.
