Major Storm System Brings Record Snow and Flash Flood Threats Across U.S.
A significant storm is affecting the central U.S., bringing record snowfall, particularly in New Mexico. Tropical Storm Rafael poses a flash flood risk as it moves moisture across the South. Wildfires remain a concern in the West and Northeast due to dry conditions, though rainfall is expected. Residents are advised to prepare for potential flooding and fire hazards.
A significant storm system currently traverses the central United States, resulting in a diverse array of severe weather conditions. This storm has produced exceptional snowfall, particularly in New Mexico, where regions have received over three feet of snow. Notably, Angel Fire has reported 40 inches within the last 36 hours, while Las Vegas has recorded 31.7 inches, setting a new all-time record for snowfall from a single storm. Snowfall totals reported include 36 inches in Rociada, 28 inches in Genoa, and 20 inches in Kenton, among others, with Denver recording its third-largest November snowstorm at 19.2 inches. Moreover, Tropical Storm Rafael is currently positioned in the central Gulf of Mexico, producing winds up to 50 mph. Fortunately, this storm is not projected to make landfall, but it is expected to have indirect effects on the weather as moisture from Rafael interacts with a frontal system moving across the southern states. Consequently, there is a High Risk for Excessive Rainfall in parts of Louisiana today, with anticipated rainfall of up to 8 inches, extending the flash flood risk as far north as Kentucky. Furthermore, the swells generated by Rafael pose a dangerous rip current risk to several beaches along the Gulf Coast, with wave heights expected to reach up to 7 feet, prompting High Surf Advisories through the weekend. In the western parts of the United States, some regions continue to battle wildfires, though conditions have improved sufficiently to limit fire growth in California. Conversely, the Northeast is under a Red Flag Warning in six states, where wind gusts may reach up to 35 mph and humidity levels could drop as low as 25%, heightening the potential for fire escalation. Rain is expected to move into the Northeast by Sunday night, which may offer some relief, although it is unlikely to significantly alleviate the ongoing severe to extreme drought affecting the region.
This article discusses the emergence of a large storm system affecting various parts of the United States, characterized by severe weather, including significant snowfall and rainfall. The storm has had a major impact on New Mexico, setting snowfall records, and poses threats of flash flooding particularly in southern regions ahead of Tropical Storm Rafael. The article also touches on the wildfire situation in California and the Northeast, highlighting continued risks despite recent weather changes. This compendium of weather phenomena underscores the complex patterns of climate impacts being experienced across the country.
In summary, the ongoing storm system is delivering heavy snowfall mainly across New Mexico with significant implications for other regions in the form of flooding and wildfire risks. As Tropical Storm Rafael contributes moisture leading to excessive rainfall forecasts in the South, the Northeast prepares for potential relief from drought conditions. Overall, this wide-ranging weather event necessitates vigilance from residents in affected areas due to varied threats of severe weather.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
