Pacific Moisture Returns to the West

news image
Special Stories
4 Apr 2018 4:32 PM
Several rounds of rain and snow will begin to impact the western United States late this week thanks to the "Pineapple Express." https://twitter.com/NWSBayArea/status/981613453172527110 The Pineapple Express---an atmospheric river of moisture originating near Hawaii---is often necessary to keep the West Coast drought-free.  However, it can bring hazardous weather in the form of flooding and mudslides.  But what is an atmospheric river? https://twitter.com/NWSBayArea/status/981190965036830720 With a milder air mass in place, mountain locations like the Sierra Nevada will contend with melting snow and falling rain.  The risk of flooding will increase. https://twitter.com/NWSSacramento/status/981581665670610944 A Flood Watch is posted for the mountains and foothills along the California - Nevada border.  Rainfall may exceed 6 inches in parts of the Sierra Nevada by Sunday. River flooding is a concern.  But what is the chance for debris flows or mudslides, especially in burn scar areas?  WeatherNation spoke with the National Weather Service Bay Area office in Monterey, California.  Meteorologist Scott Rowe explains. https://twitter.com/WeatherNation/status/981660219758411776 As you might expect with a Pacific system, the Northwest will also join in on the rain and subsequently, the threat for flooding.  Snow will be more of a concern with colder temperatures in place across the Northern Rockies and High Plains. Snow totals may approach 6 inches in the valleys, plains, and lower elevation locations.  The mountains---in Wyoming, in particular---may see snow accumulations near 12 inches. Be sure to follow WeatherNation on Facebook and Twitter for the latest West Coast forecast and other top weather stories. -Meteorologist Joe Astolfi
All Weather News
More
Potentially Catastrophic Flooding Likely for the Midsouth

Potentially Catastrophic Flooding Likely for the Midsouth

Prolonged heavy rain is expected to begin Wed

2 Apr 2025 2:35 AM
FORECAST: Relentless Severe Chances This Week

FORECAST: Relentless Severe Chances This Week

Severe chances have been easy to find in the

2 Apr 2025 2:30 AM
Heavy, Wet Snow on Northern Side of Severe Weather

Heavy, Wet Snow on Northern Side of Severe Weather

NORTHERN U.S. - Winter weather alerts continu

2 Apr 2025 2:25 AM
Wet & Snowy Western Storm System Through Wednesday

Wet & Snowy Western Storm System Through Wednesday

A strong storm system continues in California

2 Apr 2025 1:10 AM
Severe Storms Leave Damage from the Midwest to the Deep South This Week

Severe Storms Leave Damage from the Midwest to the Deep South This Week

Powerful storms raced through the Midwest and

1 Apr 2025 12:16 PM
Slight Risk For Severe Storms Overnight

Slight Risk For Severe Storms Overnight

All modes of severe weather were seen Monday

1 Apr 2025 2:55 AM
Ice Storm In the Great Lakes Through New England

Ice Storm In the Great Lakes Through New England

GREAT LAKES to NORTHEAST - As the freezing li

31 Mar 2025 1:55 AM