The National Weather Service has issued urgent alerts for severe winter weather that is currently impacting parts of the United States. As of today, December 18, 2025, residents in specific western regions need to prepare for dangerous conditions. While much of the country is looking at a milder end to the month, two states are facing a intense combination of heavy snowfall and damaging wind gusts.
These warnings were officially announced yesterday, December 16, as meteorologists tracked a powerful storm system moving through the Pacific region. The forecast indicates that travel could be difficult or impossible in the hardest hit areas, and power outages are a significant risk. If you live in the affected zones, it is time to secure outdoor items and check your emergency supplies.
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Alaska and Washington in the Crosshairs
The brunt of this storm is focused on the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. The National Weather Service in Anchorage has been particularly vocal about the dangers developing along the coast. They have upgraded previous watches to official warnings, signaling that the hazardous weather is imminent or already occurring.
Alaska is seeing some of the most extreme conditions, specifically along the Alaska Peninsula and the Eastern Aleutians. Meanwhile, parts of Washington state are also bracing for significant winter impacts. This system is bringing a mix of precipitation that includes heavy accumulating snow in higher elevations and northern latitudes.
Dangerous Winds Threaten Power and Property
One of the most concerning aspects of this weather system is the wind velocity. Forecasters are predicting gusts that could reach as high as 80 mph in the most exposed areas. Winds of this magnitude are capable of causing widespread damage to structures and tearing down power lines.
The National Weather Service warned that these high winds could easily move loose debris and damage property. Residents have been advised to fasten loose objects or move them inside to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles. The combination of wind and snow can also lead to blizzard conditions, drastically reducing visibility for anyone on the roads.
Snowfall Accumulations Could Reach 20 Inches
Alongside the howling winds, heavy snow is piling up. The latest reports suggest that some areas in Alaska and Washington could see anywhere from a few inches to an impressive 20 inches of snow by the time the storm passes. This heavy accumulation will make travel treacherous and could strand motorists who venture out unprepared.
This snowfall follows a recent storm that impacted the Northeast earlier in the week, where New York City saw its first measurable snow of the season. However, the accumulation expected in the Pacific states is significantly higher than what was seen on the East Coast, posing a much greater challenge for road crews and residents alike.
A Warm Up for the Rest of the Country
While the far northwest battles winter fury, the rest of the United States is seeing a very different weather pattern. Current climate models show a warming trend that will likely last through Christmas. Research from the Climate Prediction Center indicates that nearly 90 percent of the country will experience temperatures that are above normal for this time of year.
The Northern Plains, which recently saw temperatures dip below zero, are expected to rebound into the 40s today and tomorrow. This warmer air is steadily moving east, meaning that for most Americans, the end of December will feel unseasonably mild. This sharp contrast creates a tale of two winters across the nation this week.
Key Weather Alerts
- High Wind Warnings are in effect for the Alaska Peninsula and Eastern Aleutians.
- Wind gusts are expected to peak around 80 mph in severe zones.
- Snowfall totals could reach up to 20 inches in specific locations.
- Power outages and property damage are likely due to the wind strength.
- Most of the continental U.S. will see warmer temperatures through late December.
Regional Weather Forecast Overview
The table below outlines the drastic differences in weather conditions expected across the country this week.
| Region | Forecast Condition | Primary Hazard |
| Alaska Peninsula | Stormy | 80 mph Winds |
| Washington State | Heavy Snow | Low Visibility |
| Northern Plains | Warming Trend | Rapid Melt |
| Northeast | Clearing | Post-Storm Recovery |
| Southwest | Very Warm | Above Average Heat |
