Winter Storm Warnings Slam 12 States as 75 MPH Winds, 24 Inches of Snow Loom
As winter storm warnings are in effect across 12 states, forecasters warn of 75 MPH winds and 24 inches of snow. This article will detail the conditions that are coming and how to best be ready to deal with so much snow.
Forecasters Warn of Up to 24 Inches of Snow
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On February 10, 2026, the National Weather Service called for up to 24 inches of snow to arrive in California before Wednesday at 4 p.m. The affected cities include Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona, Lake Wishon, Florence Lake, Huntington Lake, Devils Postpile, Shaver Lake, and Lake Thomas Edison. The same warning also revealed that travel was expected to be "very difficult to impossible" as wind gusts reaching 50 MPH will create whiteout conditions in the affected area.
When dealing with that level of snow, being prepared can make a huge difference for residents. Fortunately, a January 2026 Men's Journal article outlined eight must-have products to "survive a snowpocalypse" complete with links to buy them. Some of the products detailed include waterproof boots, a space heater, an emergency crank radio, lined gloves, a power station, an electric snow shovel, and more.
Wind Gusts Could Reach 75 MPH in Hardest-Hit Areas
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The Reno Gazette-Journal has reported on extremely powerful winds that are expected to affect parts of California and Nevada, only tapering off on Thursday. The outlet is calling for strong winds along the Tahoe basin, with the stronger gusts reaching as high as 75 mph. Even when the wind speeds aren't so extreme, they are still forecasted to accelerate to between 35 and 65 mph.
Winter Storm Warnings Spread Across 12 States
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In addition to California and Nevada, another 10 states are under winter storm warnings or advisories, according to Newsweek. A report from the outlet described the following breakdown of states and the winter weather conditions they are facing.
Montana: 10–20 inches of snow with strong winds.
Wyoming: 6–12 inches of snow possible with wind gusts exceeding 50 mph.
Michigan: Up to 6 inches of snow and a light glaze of ice.
Wisconsin: Freezing rain and sleet.
New York: Up to 11 inches of snow possible.
Vermont: Up to 6 inches of snow.
New Hampshire: Up to 5 inches of snow statewide.
Maine: Light to moderate snowfall.
Alaska: Up to 12 inches of snow along with blizzard conditions.
Hawaii: More than 12 inches of snow possible.