Two separate winter storms were taking aim at the Northwest and the Plains on Thursday, while much of the South was to stay dry and warm.
Rain, freezing rain and snow was forecast from Washington state to western Montana. Snow accumulations were expected to range between 2 to 6 inches across the valleys, with intensified snowfall over the higher elevations.
Rain and snow also was expected over northern California, the Pacific Northwest and over the Northern Rockies.
Numerous scattered rain, sleet and snow showers were forecast for the upper Mississippi Valley by Thursday evening. Strong winds, isolated thunderstorms and hail were expected to accompany rain showers over the mid-Mississippi Valley. The heaviest snow showers were expected over central and southern Minnesota.
The Northern Plains were to continue experiencing bitter cold temperatures. Winds of 15 to 25 mph were to send wind chills at or less than 20 below zero. Light periods of snow were expected to accompany the chilly weather.
Temperatures in the Lower 48 states on Wednesday ranged from a low of minus 9 degrees at Berlin, N.H., to a high of 97 degrees at Laredo, Texas.
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