Impactful High-Elevation Snow Targets Sierra San Juans and Uintas Through Early Week

High-elevation snow will be the main story across the Sierra Nevada into the Intermountain West and Rockies from Sunday, November 1st through early Wednesday. Most of the precipitation falling at lower levels will stay as rain, but the highest peaks stand to see impactful snow. Travel through mountain passes could become difficult where the heaviest snow piles up.

The Sierra Nevada ranks among the areas most likely to see the strongest snow. There is a greater than 90 percent chance of at least a foot of snow above roughly 9000 feet, with locally up to two feet possible. The combination of heavy snow and dense accumulations could create notable snow-load concerns for higher terrain.

In the higher Colorado Rockies, especially the San Juans, similar heavy snow is expected. Chances exceed 90 percent for a foot or more above 9000 feet, and locally two feet cannot be ruled out. These amounts may produce moderate to locally major impacts from snow load in the most favored high terrain.

The Uintas are also favored for the heaviest accumulations. Greater than 90 percent chances of at least 12 inches exist above 9000 feet, with locally higher totals possible. Snow will remain mostly confined to the highest elevations while lower valleys stay milder and wetter.

Farther north, the higher elevations of the Big Horns, Wind Rivers and Sawtooth ranges carry a 60 percent chance of at least a foot of snow. Some colder air wrapping into the system Sunday night through Monday night may allow limited mixing to lower elevations across Montana and Wyoming, yet notable accumulations below 6000 feet are not expected.

Across the broader Intermountain West and High Plains, most precipitation will fall as rain rather than snow. Snow levels stay elevated through the period, so significant accumulations remain limited to the highest peaks. Lower elevations should see little disruption from snow.

Moisture will push as far east as the Central Plains, but the bulk of that precipitation is expected to remain rain. No widespread snow is anticipated across the Plains themselves during this stretch. Any travel impacts will more likely stem from rain than from accumulating snow.

Outside the western mountains, little to no snow is expected through early Wednesday. The chance of significant ice across the rest of the country stays below 10 percent. Most travelers beyond the high terrain of the Sierra, Rockies and nearby ranges can plan for mainly rain or dry conditions.