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.
“Powder day across the Wasatch with 3-6 inches. Next storm hits 12/14-12/15 with moderate snow accumulation. This storm system delivers light accumulation to the Central and Northern Mountains of Colorado afternoon 12/13.
Heavy snow accumulation hits the Sierra 12/14 with weak to moderate atmospheric river (AR) contribution.Snow Timeline:
Wasatch: 12/13 (L/M), 12/14-12/15(M), 12/16(L)
Tetons: PM 12/13(L), 12/14-12/15(H), 12/16-12/17(L/M)
Colorado: PM 12/13(L), 12/15(L), 12/17(L)
Tahoe: 12/13(L), 12/14(H), 12/16(L)
Interior BC: PM 12/13(L), 12/14(M), 12/15-12/16(L), 12/17-12/18(H)
Northeast: 12/17(R/S), 12/20-12/21(H)”
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.
Powder Day in the Wasatch
A surprise snowstorm is bringing 5-6 inches of fresh powder to Utah’s Wasatch Range. Little Cottonwood Canyon, including Alta ski resort, is experiencing significant snowfall. Solitude, Brighton, Alta, and Snowbird are all set for an excellent powder day on Friday.
Storm Systems on the Move
Two storm systems are affecting the Western United States. The first is dropping snow in Utah and will move toward Colorado later in the day. A second, more substantial storm with atmospheric river moisture is just reaching the California coast.
Weekend Forecast for Popular Ski Areas
The Wasatch Range can expect continued powder through the weekend. Moderate accumulations are predicted for December 14-15, with a possibility of light snow on December 16. Colorado will see light snow accumulations over the next few days, while interior British Columbia is set for several days of snowfall.
Sierra Nevada and Pacific Northwest Outlook
Heavy snowfall is expected in the Sierra Nevada and Pacific Northwest. Tahoe could receive 1-2 feet of snow, Mammoth 8-10 inches (with potential for more), and Mount Shasta up to 3 feet. The Pacific Northwest is forecasted to get 8-16 inches.
Colorado’s Northern Mountains
Colorado’s northern mountains, particularly around Steamboat Springs, are in for significant snowfall. The area could see two or three good shots of moisture over the next 72-80 hours, potentially resulting in 8-12 inches of accumulation from Cameron Pass to the Gore Range, including Rabbit Ears Pass and Buff Pass.
Extended Forecast
The storm track is expected to shift northward after December 17. This change will favor British Columbia and northern areas of Canada, while the lower 48 states will experience high-pressure ridging and lighter snow accumulations.
