As the spookiest day of the year approaches, a chilling forecast emerges: millions across the United States brace for a wintry Halloween, particularly in regions like the upper Midwest, where snow is poised to blanket landscapes, and heavy flakes are expected to cascade down in the soaring heights of the Pacific Northwest.
In stark contrast, Halloween revelers in the Eastern U.S. anticipate temperatures that echo the warmth of summer, as reported by the National Weather Service on Thursday. They might need to swap costumes for a light jacket instead of a heavy coat!
Forecasts predict moderate to heavy snowfall across the Southern Cascades and the Northern Intermountain Region, extending into the upper Midwest. Winter storm warnings and advisories, issued earlier this week, remain prominently in effect, keeping residents on alert.
“A Pacific weather system will bring some snow to the west that will turn the ground white as a ghost on Halloween in western Wyoming. A gusty, spooky wind will blow from Wamsutter to Casper at times,” articulated the weather service in Riverton, Wyoming—a poetic reminder of nature’s unpredictability.
The National Weather Service highlights that nearly four million individuals will find themselves living under the chilling shadow of winter weather advisories. Mountain regions could see snow accumulations reaching up to a foot, fueled by a confluence of cold air and high moisture. Travelers should prepare for challenging conditions, particularly after dark when roads might become treacherous.
“Be prepared for winter driving conditions and slower travel should you venture into the high country. Following the storm, a rush of colder air will usher in frost and freeze concerns for lower elevation areas,” the weather service warned with palpable urgency.
Halloween Snowfall in the Upper Midwest
As the clock ticks down to Halloween, parts of Minnesota, extreme northern Wisconsin, and the western reaches of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula are expected to be blanketed in snow. The impact will likely be felt most acutely in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, where unpredictable weather could lead to rapidly evolving driving conditions.
By Thursday morning, rain was morphing into a wintry mix in the Twin Cities, creating slushy, slippery streets. The forecast suggested that snowfall rates may surge above an inch per hour at peak times, transforming the urban landscape into a frosty spectacle.
Meteorologist Caitlin Kaiser warned that, “A winter coat will be a good addition to your Halloween costume if you reside in the Northwest, Rockies, or upper Midwest. Temperatures will plunge into the 40s, making evening festivities decidedly chilly.”
This Halloween, dressing up won’t just be about fits and styles; warm layers will be essential gear against the frost that threatens to turn trick-or-treating into a chilly adventure.
