New Winter Storm Warnings Issued for 11 States as 16 Feet of Snow, 100mph Winds Hit
A strong weather event has already started on the West Coast, which is in desperate need of precipitation after a quiet snow season - especially in the mountains.
According to data from the National Weather Service, Accuweather and a number of respected meteorologists, this winter storm could bring as much as 16 feet of snow to the mountains and several feet of snow for lower elevations while also producing nearly a foot of rain.
National Weather Service Issues 'Marginal Risk' Warning
As the deep upper-level trough remains over the West, the National Weather Service offered an updated risk warning with potential flash flooding.
"Although the heavier rainfall have diminished, the cold front and shortwave energy dives southward along the West Coast and will bring renewed rainfall with generally 1-2" over lower elevations and 2-4" over higher elevations over parts of central and southern California," the NWS warned.
"This will create a Marginal Risk for excessive rainfall and flash flooding over the area, especially over burn scars. In addition to the rainfall, snow chances will remain elevated over Pacific Northwest, Intermountain West, and California mountain ranges, with heaviest accumulations of 12" or more over higher peaks of the Sierra and Cascade through Thursday."
It also warned the greater Lake Tahoe area will be subject to winds up to 100 mph. "Additional snow accumulations between 1 to 3 feet in the Tahoe Basin, locally up to 4 feet along the highest peaks. Snow totals will be highest on the west shore, and much of Alpine County. Winds gusting up to 50 mph in valleys, with Sierra ridge gusts over 100 mph," an NWS forecast for the region read.
Up to 16 Feet of Snow Falling in Strong Winter Storm
Accuweather issued its latest forecast for the region, showing that up to 12 feet is likely to hit through the end of the week.
"Through Wednesday 4-8 feet of snow is expected, with the heaviest period likely to be from Monday night through Tuesday. From 8-12 feet of snow is likely to pile up through the end of the week over the high country of the Sierra Nevada," it said.
Washington Post meteorologist Ben Noll expects even more, showing a graphic on social media with up to 192 inches of snow - or 16 feet - hitting in California.
"A lot of snow is forecast across the snow drought-stricken Intermountain West through the end of the month. It won't break the drought, but relief is on the way," he said.
A lot of snow is forecast across the snow drought-stricken Intermountain West through the end of the month.
— Ben Noll (@BenNollWeather) February 16, 2026
It won't break the drought, but relief is on the way. pic.twitter.com/3UevLxajL8
Noll's graphic shows 11 states in the path of the strong winter storm: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.
Winter Safety Tips to Know
Those expecting to see heavy snowfall are encouraged to winterize outdoor faucets, apply these solutions for insulating windows, prepare for roof snow removal and apply salt to driveways and walkways in a manner that’s safe for children and pets.
The American Red Cross also warns against using popular items like candles indoors during a snow storm due to the fire risk. "Avoid using candles because of the fire risk. Use battery-powered lights and flashlights instead," it said.
Meanwhile, the American Red Cross warned that carbon monoxide poisoning is common during power outages when people use other means, like generators, grills to heat and cook indoors or using opening heated ovens to heat the house.