Summary
Highlights
Widespread snowfall of 6 to 12 inches is forecast from North Dakota to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Hotspots in northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan could see 12 to 24 inches, with some localized areas possibly reaching near 3 feet due to a combination of the low-pressure system and lake effect snow. Inland areas will generally see 3 to 6 inches.
A big storm system is moving across the Southeast, including Dixie Alley, bringing a risk of severe storms today. The primary concerns are damaging winds, hail, and a few tornadoes, with a slight risk of severe weather in central Alabama and southeastern Mississippi.
The tornado threat is elevated today due to favorable wind shear. Spin-up tornadoes are possible, primarily in central and southern Alabama, from late morning through sunset. The main tornado risk window is from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with supercells potentially forming in a corridor from Huntsville to Mobile.
A major snow event is unfolding across the Northern Plains, Midwest, and Great Lakes, leading up to Thanksgiving. Heavy snow is expected in North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, with some areas potentially receiving 18 to 24 inches of snow within 24 hours. Lake effect snow will also contribute significantly to totals in areas like Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.
A different and potentially very active weather pattern is expected for the upcoming weekend and early December. A large low-pressure system along the West Coast will fuel moisture into the Great Plains, Southeast, and Ohio Valley, creating a battle zone between cold and warm air, leading to potential severe weather, heavy snow, and ice.
Cold air will impact the Midwest, Ohio Valley, and Northeast for Thanksgiving. More shots of cold air are expected into early December, especially in the Midwest and Northeast. The forecast beyond Sunday is uncertain, with models showing different scenarios regarding moisture and high-pressure systems, but a very active 7 to 10 days is anticipated.