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
Severe Storms Target the Front Range & Great Plains

Severe Storms Target the Front Range & Great Plains

Severe storms will continue to fire up off th

7 Jul 2025 12:25 AM
Catastrophic Flooding in the Texas Hill Country

Catastrophic Flooding in the Texas Hill Country

Multiple Flash Flood Emergencies were issued

6 Jul 2025 9:15 PM
Severe Storms in the Midwest Continue To Spoil the Holiday Weekend

Severe Storms in the Midwest Continue To Spoil the Holiday Weekend

NORTHERN PLAINS - A frontal system continues

6 Jul 2025 8:00 PM
Eastern Pacific Remains Active

Eastern Pacific Remains Active

Following the prolific start to the season, t

6 Jul 2025 6:15 PM
Chantal Weakens After Making Landfall Sunday Morning

Chantal Weakens After Making Landfall Sunday Morning

Tropical Storm Chantal formed earlier Saturda

6 Jul 2025 6:00 PM
Hot Weather Brings a Shot at Storms Out East

Hot Weather Brings a Shot at Storms Out East

Guess who's back. The heat and humidity will

6 Jul 2025 10:20 AM
Near Seasonal Temperatures for Many Come July 4th!

Near Seasonal Temperatures for Many Come July 4th!

AAA is expecting over 70 million travelers to

4 Jul 2025 10:15 AM