Lots of snow, rain, and wind could slow down freight movement in some parts of the U.S. this week before many drivers head home for Christmas. People catching flights later in the week to be with their friends and families should be prepared for possible delays.
Snow and Wind
Plenty more snow will fall tonight through Tuesday night in the usual trouble spots in the Mountain Prairie and Northwest regions, prompting Winter Weather Advisories, Winter Storm Watches, and Winter Storm Warnings from the National Weather Service.
The northern Cascade Range in Washington state will get hit hard again, with 12 to 36 inches of snow in the forecast for the eastern slopes above 3,000 feet. Besides the heavy snow, wind gusts could reach 45 mph at times, making travel difficult on US-97 through Blewett Pass, as well as on SR-20 through Loup Loup and Sherman Passes.
Drivers will face similar issues trying to get through the northern Rocky Mountains during the same time frame. Portions of northern Idaho and western Montana will see 12 to 24 inches of new snow with pockets of freezing rain, leading to some icy conditions. Strong crosswinds of 65 to 75 mph will accompany the snow at from time to time, blowing it around and making it very hard for drivers to see the road and other vehicles in front of them. Hauling full loads will be a struggle. Deadheading or moving light loads will be nearly impossible, if not risky.