Winter Storm Brings Heavy Snow and Freezing Rain Across 13 States

Parts of the Sierra Nevada and Intermountain West could see up to 24 inches of snow, while the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic brace for icy conditions.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A powerful winter storm is impacting at least 13 states across the U.S., bringing heavy snow, blizzard conditions, and freezing rain that could make travel treacherous. The highest snowfall amounts, up to 24 inches, are forecast for the high elevation areas of the Sierra Nevada in California. Other regions, including parts of Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado, are also bracing for significant snowfall of up to 20 inches. Meanwhile, states in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, such as West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York, are expecting icy conditions from freezing drizzle that could lead to slippery roads.

Why it matters

This winter storm is a significant weather event that could disrupt travel, cause power outages, and pose safety risks for residents in the affected regions. The heavy snow and freezing rain are particularly concerning, as they can make driving conditions extremely hazardous and lead to the potential for accidents and stranded motorists. The storm also highlights the ongoing challenges communities face in dealing with the impacts of severe winter weather, which is expected to become more frequent and intense due to climate change.

The details

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the winter storm is expected to bring blizzard-like conditions with whiteout visibility in the hardest-hit areas. In the Sierra Nevada, the highest snowfall amounts could reach up to 24 inches, while parts of the Intermountain West, including Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado, are forecast to receive 15 to 20 inches of snow. In the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, the main threat is from freezing drizzle, which could lead to ice accumulation on roads and make travel hazardous. The NWS has issued winter storm warnings and winter weather advisories for the affected states.

  • As of Wednesday morning around 10 a.m. Eastern time, the winter weather is impacting Alaska, Hawaii, California, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, Maryland, and Maine.
  • The heavy snow is expected to continue through Wednesday, with the highest amounts forecast for the morning hours.
  • Freezing drizzle and icy conditions in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic are expected to persist through Thursday night, depending on the location.

The players

National Weather Service (NWS)

The National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts, and warnings for the United States.

Derek Schroeter

An NWS meteorologist who provided information about the persistence of snow in certain areas, such as Maine.

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What they’re saying

“Occasional freezing drizzle may lead to slippery conditions through this afternoon. Precipitation will transition to snow showers this afternoon and could continue through Thursday, with localized amounts of 1 to 3 inches possible.”

— NWS Baltimore office (NWS)

“Periods of snow or freezing drizzle will result in slippery roads and limited visibilities. Slow down and use caution while driving.”

— NWS Buffalo (NWS)

What’s next

The winter weather is expected to continue through Thursday night, and residents in the affected areas should continue to monitor local weather forecasts and heed the advice of local meteorologists and authorities regarding travel conditions and safety precautions.

The takeaway

This powerful winter storm serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for severe winter weather, which can have significant impacts on transportation, infrastructure, and public safety. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, communities will need to adapt and strengthen their resilience to these types of extreme events.