Thousands face winter storm warnings

A strong winter storm is bringing heavy snowfall to the higher elevations of the western mountains of the U.S. on Wednesday, a storm that will bring a snowy Halloween to people in several states.

The snow comes as parts of the central U.S. brace for severe weather on Wednesday and the East enjoys near-record warmth.

Moderate to heavy snowfall is expected at higher elevations in Utah, Wyoming and Colorado on Wednesday thanks to the strong storm, according to the National Weather Service. Several winter storm warnings and winter weather advisories issued earlier this week remain in effect.

According to the National Weather Service on Wednesday, a total of about a quarter of a million people live in areas where winter weather warnings are in effect. A smaller number, about 15,000, were warned of a winter storm.

According to the weather service, people in the mountain ranges could see up to a foot of snow as colder air combines with high humidity. Conditions may make travel difficult, especially in the dark.

“Be prepared for winter driving conditions and slower speeds if you need to venture into the highlands. Following the storm, much colder air will lead to frost and freezing problems at lower elevations,” the weather service warned.

Halloween snow for the Upper Midwest?

Moderate to heavy snowfall is expected on Halloween in parts of Minnesota, far northern Wisconsin and western parts of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the weather service said.

The metropolitan area most affected by snow on Halloween is Minneapolis/St. Paul, where the weather service said: “If you plan to travel on Thursday, expect rapidly changing conditions.”

The cold will be widespread on Thursday: Weather.com meteorologist Caitlin Kaiser said: “If you live in the Northwest, the Rocky Mountains or the Upper Midwest, a winter coat is a good addition to your Halloween costume to keep you cool.”

Halloween snow for the Upper Midwest?

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