Winter Alert Issued by NWS: Up to 15 cm of Snow Expected in 8 States as October Begins

Winter Weather Advisory: Early Snow and Freeze Alerts for the U.S.

Cold Air Outbreak Strikes Eight States

As the fall season unfolds, winter weather has already made an early appearance in several parts of the United States. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter alerts for eight states, cautioning residents to prepare for significant drops in temperature and snowfall. These alerts come unusually early, even before some have had the chance to enjoy their first Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season.

Where Is the First Snow Expected in 2025?

The states on the alert include Alaska, the Northeast region, and Colorado. Meteorologists forecast up to 6 inches of snow accumulation in some areas. For regions like inland Alaska and Northern Colorado, snow at this time of year is not entirely unexpected. Nevertheless, the early cold air outbreak underscores the need for vigilance.

Why Colorado and Alaska First?

In places like Chena Hot Springs and the White Mountains of Alaska, October marks the typical onset of winter. Despite the early snow, a maximum of 6 inches aligns with national averages. However, mountain passes such as Steese Highway are particularly susceptible to slippery conditions, posing transportation hazards.

Meanwhile, in Colorado, the San Luis Valley will experience snowfall due to its high altitude rather than unusual weather patterns. Mountainous regions tend to trap cold air, leading to snow rather than rain.

East Coast Braces for Hard Freezes

The Northeast, including states like New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania, faces a different challenge: hard freezes. These conditions, driven by a swift descent of a powerful polar air mass from Canada, threaten to plummet temperatures to nearly 20°F. Unlike snow, these freezes offer no aesthetic appeal but come with hazards such as slippery roads and potential plumbing issues.

Understanding Frost vs. Freeze Warnings

It is crucial to differentiate between a ‘Frost Advisory’ and a ‘Freeze Warning.’ A ‘Frost Advisory’ indicates temperatures hovering around 32°F, potentially affecting sensitive vegetation. In contrast, a ‘Freeze Warning’ signals temperatures dropping below 32°F for an extended period, potentially causing significant damage to pipes and marking an effective end to the growing season, except for greenhouse cultivation.

Garden Preparation Tips for Early Snow

Even if the winter forecast is short-term, one cold night could cause irreversible harm to your garden. Here are some tips to protect your plants:

• Relocate fragile potted plants to unheated indoor spaces like garages or sheds. The cold can attack their roots from all sides, compromising their survival.
• Apply a thick layer of mulch (6 to 8 inches) around the base of plants like rose bushes to insulate roots.
• Consider using sackcloth bags or anti-frost cloths to shield delicate plants, but remember to remove any coverings each morning.

By following these preparatory steps, you can better ensure your garden’s resilience against early winter conditions.