Winter Storm Maps Show Potential for Heavy Snow Across Western U.S.

Forecast models predict up to 10 feet of snow in parts of the Sierra Nevada and central Rockies over the next two weeks.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The National Weather Service has published maps showing the probability of winter weather impacts across the western United States over the next seven days. Forecast models predict that a series of Pacific storms could bring up to 10 feet of snow to high-elevation areas from the Sierra Nevada to the central Rockies, marking a sharp turn from the region's prolonged dry spell and low snowpack.

Why it matters

The incoming storms could significantly boost mountain snowpack, which is crucial for water supply in the Colorado River basin. However, the heavy snow and strong winds may also create hazardous travel conditions across the region.

The details

The Weather Prediction Center's maps show that the highest chances of at least minor winter weather impacts will begin on Monday, with California, Nevada, and Utah at the greatest risk. By Tuesday, the chances of impacts spread to 10 states in the West, with Utah, Colorado, and pockets of California seeing over 90% chances of minor effects. While the breadth of impacts diminishes by Wednesday, several states including California, Utah, and Colorado remain under at least a 60% chance of winter weather impacts.

  • On Monday, California, Nevada, and Utah have the highest chances of at least minor winter weather impacts.
  • By Tuesday, the chances of impacts spread to 10 states in the West, with Utah, Colorado, and pockets of California seeing over 90% chances of minor effects.
  • While the breadth of impacts diminishes by Wednesday, several states including California, Utah, and Colorado remain under at least a 60% chance of winter weather impacts.

The players

National Weather Service (NWS)

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

Weather Prediction Center

A division of the National Weather Service that produces forecasts and maps depicting the probability of winter weather impacts.

Brett Anderson

A senior meteorologist at AccuWeather who provided insights on the potential impacts of the incoming storms on the Colorado River basin.

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What they’re saying

“Prior to this week, the amount of water locked up in the existing snow cover was close to a record minimum in Colorado and Utah. This zone constitutes a large part of the Colorado River basin, and with limited spring runoff available, it could be a major problem for summer water concerns on the river and man-made lakes.”

— Brett Anderson, Senior Meteorologist (Newsweek)

What’s next

NWS meteorologists will likely issue more winter weather warnings as the incoming storms further develop. The Grand Junction, Colorado NWS office has already issued a hazardous weather outlook, warning of continued mountain snow and potential impacts on roadways through Friday evening.

The takeaway

The incoming winter storms could provide a much-needed boost to the region's snowpack, which is crucial for water supply in the Colorado River basin. However, the heavy snow and strong winds may also create hazardous travel conditions across the western United States over the next two weeks.