Heavy High-Elevation Snow Possible in Western Mountains Through Monday

A moisture-laden system is bringing unsettled weather to the western United States from Saturday through early next week, with rain at lower elevations and significant snow only in the highest mountains. Most snow will stay above 8000 to 9000 feet, and the chance of significant icing anywhere in the country is very low. The rest of the nation should see little to no snow.

In the Sierra Nevada, the heaviest snow is expected at the highest elevations, where locally up to two feet could fall before precipitation ends Sunday night. Snow levels will start quite high, around 8000 to 9000 feet, so lower slopes and most passes will see more rain than snow. Higher mountain roads could still face hazardous travel conditions where snow does accumulate.

The San Juan Mountains in Colorado stand out for the greatest potential impacts, with a high chance of at least moderate effects from heavy snow. Locally up to two feet is possible near and just below the tree line around 11,000 feet, which could cause isolated tree damage. Higher passes may see difficult travel, though most accumulation will remain above typical road levels.

The Uinta Mountains in Utah are another area where impactful snow is likely, with a strong chance of at least a foot of accumulation in the highest terrain. Like nearby ranges, snow levels will be elevated, limiting the deepest snow to the upper elevations. Travelers on higher mountain roads should watch for slippery conditions through Monday.

In the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho, higher elevations also have a good chance of seeing a foot or more of snow. This activity is part of the same system affecting the broader western mountains and should wind down by Monday. Isolated travel issues are possible on the highest routes where snow falls.

Across the Great Basin, rain will be more common at mid and lower elevations while snow remains confined mostly above 8000 to 9000 feet. Precipitation is expected to taper off by Monday. Most everyday travel should be fine, with only the highest mountain areas seeing any notable accumulation.

The Central Rockies will see the system linger a bit longer, with precipitation ending by Monday night. Snow levels here could reach as high as 11,000 feet early on, so only the tallest peaks will get the heavier snow. Lower elevations will mainly experience rain, and widespread travel problems are not expected.

Below the high mountain peaks, most of the West will see rain rather than snow, and the eastern two-thirds of the country should remain free of any significant snow. No major icing is forecast anywhere. Daily plans and travel outside the highest western terrain should face few weather-related disruptions through Tuesday.