Winter Storm Warning Forecasts 15 Feet of Snow and 1 Foot of Rain 'Pounding' 7 States

An unusual winter storm warning from a veteran meteorologist has been published that calls for extreme precipitation coming for seven Western states. The predicted conditions include 15 feet of snow, a foot of rain, and flooding risks.

Where 15 Feet of Snow and 1 Foot of Rain Are Expected

Jeff Berardelli, the chief meteorologist for NBC News affiliate WFLA-TV, posted on his X account on February 16, 2026, about a series of winter storms set to hit over the next two weeks. He highlighted that 15 feet of snow could fall in the Sierra Nevada mountains and a foot of rain could fall along the coast in the hardest-hit Western areas. Due to the sudden influx of heavy precipitation, he also cautioned about the possibility of severe flooding.

"⚠️ Pacific Pounding the next two weeks as a series of storms bombard the region. Up to 15 feet of mountain #snow and a foot of coastal #rain with severe flooding possible. The water is welcome due severe snowpack deficits, but this could become dangerous at times. ⚠️ Stay aware of local warnings!! #storm #california"

Alongside the caption, Berardelli included an animated video map showing the names of cities that are predicted to see impact from the storms. Based on that, Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Idaho, Utah, and Montana are all in the path of the winter storms. The visible cities include Seattle, Washington; Bend, Oregon; Eureka, California; San Diego, California; Boise, Idaho; Salt Lake City, Utah; and Butte, Montana.

⚠️ Pacific Pounding the next two weeks as a series of storms bombard the region. Up to 15 feet of mountain #snow and a foot of coastal #rain with severe flooding possible. The water is welcome due severe snowpack deficits, but this could become dangerous at times. ⚠️
Stay aware… pic.twitter.com/qcJM7OJP1Z

— Jeff Berardelli (@WeatherProf) February 17, 2026

Berardelli holds a bachelor’s degree in atmospheric sciences from Cornell University and has been an on-air meteorologist for more than 20 years, according to his WFLA-TV and Columbia Climate School profiles.

A Doctor Explained How To Stay Healthy When You Are Forced Inside by Winter Storms

Men's Journal's Health and Fitness Writer, Kelsey Kryger, interviewed Shirin Peters, M.D., about how people can stay healthy when they are snowed in. The doctor gave practical tips, such as consuming zinc or Vitamin C supplements, warm fluids, or over-the-counter meds at the first sign of illness. She also suggested stocking up on pain relievers, decongestants, throat lozenges, and items such as ZICAM RapidMelts or Simply Saline before winter weather strikes.

Dr. Peters went on to advise keeping your nasal passages hydrated by using humidifiers, saline sprays, rinses, or a neti pot to battle dryness from cold air. She also highlighted the importance of getting enough rest to strengthen your immune system and boost recovery time.