A major storm system is impacting the central U.S., causing substantial snowfall in New Mexico and raising flash flood concerns in Louisiana. Tropical Storm Rafael is contributing to these weather conditions while wildfire risks persist in the Northeast. Rain is expected soon, but drought conditions may not see significant relief.
The United States is currently facing the impacts of a significant storm system that spans the central region, causing diverse weather phenomena from flooding rain to substantial snowfall in the Rocky Mountains. Specifically, areas in New Mexico have recorded over three feet of snow, with Angel Fire reporting 40 inches within 36 hours, just shy of its historical record for a single storm. Las Vegas, New Mexico, has also made headlines by exceeding its previous snowfall record, accumulating 31.7 inches, surpassing the 27 inches noted in 1958. In addition to snowfall, several Colorado locations also reported substantial accumulations, including 19.2 inches in Denver, marking one of the largest November snowstorms on record. As this winter storm begins to taper off, Winter Storm Warnings have been lifted across parts of Colorado, with conditions expected to become calmer. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Rafael is moving through the central Gulf of Mexico, currently with wind speeds of 50 mph. Fortunately, this storm is not anticipated to make landfall in a dangerous capacity. However, it will contribute to increased moisture across the southern United States, particularly warning of excessive rainfall—forecasted to reach up to 8 inches in parts of Louisiana, extending the flash flood risk into Kentucky. Furthermore, Rafael’s influence is expected to heighten the risk of rip currents along the Gulf Coast, with warning advisories in place due to wave heights reaching up to 7 feet, alongside possible coastal flooding in Louisiana. In California, while several wildfires are still active, conditions appear to have stabilized, reducing the risk of further fire escalation. Conversely, elevated fire weather warnings persist in the Northeast across six states, where residents remain cautioned against the use of open flames amid low humidity and gusty winds. Rain is predicted to arrive in the Northeast by Sunday night; however, experts warn that this precipitation is unlikely to alleviate the severe to extreme drought conditions currently affecting the region.
The article addresses the current weather challenges faced by the central and southern United States due to a major storm system. The storm has brought significant snowfall to parts of New Mexico and severe rainfall forecasts for Louisiana, highlighting the risks of flooding and reduced drought conditions in some regions. The evolving nature of the storm, combined with meteorological phenomena such as Tropical Storm Rafael, provides a broad view of the various weather-related impacts across the country.
In summary, the ongoing storm system across the United States is resulting in remarkable weather fluctuations, including significant snowfall in parts of New Mexico and potential flooding in the South. The involvement of Tropical Storm Rafael adds to the complexity of the situation, raising concerns about excessive rainfall and rip currents. Meanwhile, wildfire risks remain present, particularly in the Northeast. As weather patterns shift, the focus will remain on the safety of residents and potential interventions to mitigate severe impacts.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
