A storm is expected to hit the central US on Christmas Eve. The National Weather Service (NWS) has anticipated that the strong winds and rains which caused flooding in the south of the country would move towards the center. The storm will mix with a stream of cold air coming from Canada which will cover several states in white by Monday. "This storm will come just in time to bring a White Christmas for some in the Rockies and Plains ," said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Tyler Roys.
In several states, snow came ahead of Christmas. Such as Utah and Idaho on Saturday, and Nebraska on Sunday. Generally speaking, possible snowfall was predicted for the weekend from New Mexico to Minnesota, with up to three inches of snow in some cases.
This forecast could delay travel for those traveling far from home to celebrate the holidays. An estimated 115.2 million people, according to Auto Club AAA.
"Looks like Santa will need to pack some hazard lights," the National Weather Service joked in a post about its weather forecasts for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day:
A strong storm system will track across portions of the northern/central Plains and Upper Midwest Christmas Eve and impact these areas through early next week. Heavy snow, freezing rain and strong winds are expected!
A strong storm system will track across portions of the northern/central Plains and Upper Midwest Christmas Eve and impact these areas through early next week. Heavy snow, freezing rain and strong winds are expected! Looks like Santa will need to pack some hazard lights! 🎅🏼🌨 https://t.co/pu9QL7aRKp
— National Weather Service (@NWS) December 23, 2023
Drivers should be especially alert on Interstates 76, 80 and 90, according to Fox Weather. Also on Interstate 29 , because according to the same source there could be ice on parts of the road.
🚨 Dangerous weather conditions are expected over the next 72 hours. Here's the details, a thread🧵1/6:
Near-impossible travel is likely over much of Nebraska as a long duration winter event bears down on the region. #NEwx
This storm system will come in two rounds: pic.twitter.com/uu0rtVYxKD— NWS North Platte (@NWSNorthPlatte) December 24, 2023
Meanwhile, in the southern region of the country rain is expected to continue. Flooding could also occur in parts of states such as Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
Widespread showers and storms will develop across the region later this evening into Sunday. The heaviest rainfall and flood potential will fall between 3am-10am Sunday.
Travel will likely be impacted Sunday morning. Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination! #txwx pic.twitter.com/NMmVUf29Ik
— NWS Fort Worth (@NWSFortWorth) December 23, 2023
