Winter Storm Warnings Announced for 6 States as 12 Inches of Snow Expected

The National Weather Service issued winter storm advisories for six states as up to 12 inches of snow is expected to fall between Sunday, Dec. 7 and Monday, Dec. 8.

Alaska, Illinois, Michigan, South Carolina, Virginia and Wyoming were all hit with winter weather warnings as snow ranging from trace amounts in Chicago to more than a foot in Alaska is expected to fall in the next 24 hours.

Alaska Bracing for Up to 12 Inches of Snow

Cities like Elfin Cove and Pelican are expected to see snowfall ranging from 8-to-12 inches while Kake and Port Alexander prepare for 3-to-5 inches of snow and winds of more than 40 miles per hour.

"A pattern change is bringing colder temperatures and strong outflow winds extending southward through the weekend. This pattern, in combination with prolonged moisture, is producing accumulating heavy snow for the Haines," the National Weather Service said.

"Periods of heavy to moderate snow continue over the Icy Strait Corridor due to the arctic boundary moving south of the Hoonah - Juneau area. The next band of heavier precipitation is expected to move through Sunday morning."

Several Other States Expected to See Significant Snowfall

As Alaska braces for the most snowfall in the U.S. this weekend, Wyoming is expected to see up to 10 inches of snow in the Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains. Meanwhile, Central Chippewa and Western Chippewa counties in Michigan could be hit with up to six inches of snow throughout the day.

"During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally heavy snow to dry weather just a few miles away. Visibilities can also vary greatly. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, visibility, and road conditions," NWS said in a statement.

Part of South Carolina and Virginia are also expected to see up to five inches of snow.

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