Massive Winter Storm to Impact 12 States with Snow, High Winds, and Tornado Risk

Saturday, March 15, 2025

A powerful winter storm is set to bring extreme weather across 12 states in the U.S., with forecasts predicting up to 4 feet of snow, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that more than 100 million people could be affected by this widespread weather system, which is expected to intensify as it moves eastward.

Severe Weather Threatens Multiple Regions

The storm is not just bringing snow—its impact varies across different regions:

• Blizzards and Heavy Snowfall: Areas in California, Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado are under Winter Storm Warnings, meaning dangerous winter weather is imminent. The southern Oregon Cascades could see up to 4 feet of snow, while California’s Sierra Nevada may receive up to 2 feet.
• Tornadoes and Severe Thunderstorms: The storm system is expected to bring severe thunderstorms and tornadoes to the Mississippi Valley, creating dangerous conditions.
• High Wildfire Risk: In Texas and Oklahoma, strong winds and dry conditions have significantly increased the risk of wildfires.
• Blizzard Conditions: The Upper Midwest and Northern Plains, including Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota, could see 6-12 inches of snow, accompanied by winds exceeding 35 mph. This meets the NWS criteria for blizzard conditions, which include near-zero visibility for extended periods.

Travel Disruptions and Safety Concerns

The extreme weather is expected to cause:

• Road Closures: Major highways, including Interstates I-29 and I-94, are expected to experience dangerous travel conditions due to blowing snow and reduced visibility.
• Power Outages: Strong winds could bring down trees and power lines, leading to widespread outages in some areas.
• Flight Delays and Cancellations: Air travelers should prepare for flight disruptions at major airports across affected regions.

Official Warnings and Meteorologist Predictions

The NWS Sacramento issued a warning on social media, stating:
“A storm system moving through interior Northern California will bring rain, heavy snow, isolated thunderstorms, and gusty southerly winds today.”

AccuWeather meteorologist Grady Gilman told Newsweek that this storm will intensify as it moves east, bringing blizzards, tornadoes, and wildfire risks.

Fargo, North Dakota, is forecasted to receive 6-12 inches of snow, with blizzard conditions expected as winds exceed 35 mph, reducing visibility below a quarter-mile.

What’s Next?

Officials continue to monitor the storm’s movement and will issue further advisories as conditions develop. Travelers and residents in affected areas should stay updated with the latest forecasts from the National Weather Service and take necessary precautions.

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