Chris Tomer bings us a look at his Mountain Weather Update for the Thanksgiving Holiday Weather Forecast.
Here is an overview of Chris Tomer Mountain weather update.
A major storm system is hitting the Pacific Northwest and Northern California, carrying moderate-intensity atmospheric river moisture. This “fire hose” of rain and snow will gradually shift southward, impacting Tahoe with heavy snow starting this afternoon through tomorrow. Key snow levels in Tahoe will be around 7,000 feet, with the best accumulation at or above this elevation.
The system is already delivering snow to the high Cascades, BC, and parts of Idaho. Water vapor imagery shows significant moisture being funneled toward the West Coast, with another smaller system trailing behind. The atmospheric river is expected to weaken by tomorrow morning.
Looking ahead, three storm systems will affect the region from now through November 28. The storm track will shift southward, targeting California, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado. Key snow timelines include light to moderate snow in the Wasatch, Tetons, and Colorado from November 23-25, with heavier snow on November 26-27.
Alta, Utah, at 9,000 feet, could see 5 inches of snow by November 24, with more to come on the 26-27. Similarly, Snowmass and Loveland in Colorado will receive 3-5 inches initially, followed by significant accumulation later.
The jet stream is driving these systems, bringing snow to Tahoe and Mammoth today and tomorrow, then spreading moisture across Nevada, Utah, and Colorado. By December 1, high pressure will stabilize the region, ending the storms.
Expected snowfall totals through December 1 include 15-20 inches in the Wasatch, 6-12 inches in the Tetons, and 1-2 feet across Colorado. Tahoe and Mammoth will see substantial snowfall tonight and tomorrow, especially above 7,000 feet.
Thanks for tuning in—have a great day!