It has already been an eventful winter when it comes to winter weather, and it seems that some parts of the country are expected to be hit hard by some heavy snow and dangerous winds this week.
On the morning of Wednesday, December 24, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a series of “urgent” Winter Weather warnings for a few regions of the country, warning of incoming snow and wind during the next few hours and days.
The warnings are especially pertinent for those planning holiday ski trips or hiking trips in some mountainous regions.
Maine/New Hampshire
On Wednesday morning, the NWS issued a winter weather warning for south-central, southwestern and western Maine, as well as northern New Hampshire, predicting that those areas could get up to 14 inches of snow by Wednesday afternoon.
“Periods of moderate to heavy snow will combine with low visibility to create hazardous driving conditions,” the NWS warned in its advisory. “Hazardous conditions could affect the Wednesday morning commute as well as holiday travel.”
The advisory goes through on Wednesday at 1 pm, and the NWS warns that this may have an impact on holiday travel.
“If you must travel, keep a flashlight, extra food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency,” the NWS warned.
California
Parts of California, especially those at high elevations in the Yosemite National Park region, are expected to see some heavy snow in the coming days, along with some strong winds.
The NWS warns that some areas could get between 4 and 8 feet of snow and winds of 60 mph, lasting until Friday night, which could cause “whiteout conditions.”
Other areas, such as the Greater Lake Tahoe area, could get up to two feet of snow (with up to five feet expected above 5,000 feet) and 50 mph winds. Winds up to 100 mph are likely along the upper ridges by Friday morning.
“Strong winds and the weight of snow on tree limbs can bring down power lines and can cause sporadic power outages,” the NWS warned in its advisory. “Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel difficult and potentially life-threatening. Travel may be very difficult to impossible.”
Idaho
Parts of Idaho are expected to see some severe winter weather this week, especially those at higher elevations. The NWS warns of several feet of snow and wind gusts of up to 35 mph in some areas of the state through Thursday.
“Heavy snow expected,” the NWS wrote in its advisory. “Total snow accumulations of about 5 inches to 1 foot at elevations 6500 feet to 8000 feet. Above 8000 feet expect 1 to 2 feet of snow. For the highest peaks, up to 3 feet of snow is likely. For Galena Summit about 1 foot of snow is expected. as high as 35 MPH.”
Of course, this can make traveling difficult during the holiday season.
“Travel may be very difficult to impossible, mainly on Galena Summit and in backcountry areas. Expect blowing and drifting snow,” the NWS warned.
This story was originally published by Men’s Journal on December 24, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men’s Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.