First Alert Weather In-Depth: Winter Has Arrived Out West

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Lately there has been a real significant contrast in the weather across the country. We know it has been beautiful weather conditions in Rochester, but out west today it has been a winter wonderland. Places like Montana, Idaho, Wyoming and Utah have measured 1 to 2 feet of snow, mainly in the higher elevations. And as a result, the skiers are really excited about this early start to the winter season. So what is going on to produce this pattern? 

They say we are a nation divided and, at least meteorologically, that is true. There is lots of warm air located through the eastern half of the country and plenty of cold air located out west. But to really generate that snow, there have been a couple of storm systems rolling across the west. One storm is now going up into Canada and then a second storm that is coming in through the Pacific Northwest. So it appears the folks out west are going to get a second round of snow with another 6 to 12 inches of snowfall in the higher locations.

To some folks it looks like fun. But you know it is just a matter of time before the white stuff arrives in Rochester!