The primary focus of today’s briefing is the impending G1 geomagnetic storm watch issued by NOAA, which may grant observers in the northern United States the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. As we delve into the meteorological landscape, we will address the winter hazards currently affecting the central Rockies and southern High Plains, with specific attention to a winter storm warning in effect for the Colorado Front Range, predicting significant snowfall and adverse conditions. Additionally, we will highlight accumulating snow chances in the northwest Texas Panhandle and the subsequent colder, breezy weather anticipated across various regions. Furthermore, updates from Alaska’s FEMA Bethel Assistance Hub will be provided, emphasizing ongoing support for storm and flood survivors. We encourage our audience to remain vigilant and informed as these weather systems evolve, particularly if conditions permit a glimpse of the aurora tonight.
Takeaways:
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has issued a G1 geomagnetic storm watch effective tonight, suggesting a potential view of the Northern Lights.
A winter storm warning has been declared for the Colorado Front Range, predicting heavy snowfall and hazardous blowing snow conditions.
Residents in western Alaska are encouraged to utilize the Bethel Assistance Hub, which has reopened to support survivors from previous storms and floods.
In Texas, particularly the northwest Panhandle, accumulating snow is anticipated, alongside colder and breezy weather following a passing cold front.
California currently faces no urgent weather alerts, yet a recovery update from last winter's fires has been published by CAL OES, highlighting ongoing efforts and lessons learned.
Monitoring updates from the National Weather Service is recommended, as evolving weather systems may impact the Rockies and Plains regions significantly.
NOAA has a G1 geomagnetic storm watch in effect late this evening into early Friday which may push the Northern Lights into parts of the northern U.S. if you plan to look, head somewhere dark and be ready after 10pm local time.
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On the ground Winter hazards are the main story from the central Rockies into the southern High Plains.
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The National Weather Service has a winter storm warning around the Colorado Front Range Pikes Peak region for heavy snow and blowing snow this afternoon into Friday morning.
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Farther south, NWS Amarillo Highlights accumulating snow chances Friday for the northwest Texas Panhandle.
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Light to moderate totals possible with colder, breezy conditions behind the front along the Washington coast.
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A high surf advisory runs through early afternoon today.
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Let's run through the states.
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Alaska FEMA's Bethel Assistance Hub reopens today January 8th, conditions allowing to assist survivors from prior storms and floods in western Alaska.
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Residents can get case updates, appeals help and referrals.
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Check the FEMA notice for location in hours before traveling, especially with winter weather in the region.
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California no urgent alerts this morning, but CAL OES posted a one year recovery update for last winter's Los Angeles area fires, noting ongoing support and lessons learned.
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Colorado Winter storm warning today for northern El Paso County, Monument Ridge rampart range below 7,500ft, 5 to 8 inches of snow and 40 mph gusts from this afternoon through late Friday morning.
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Minnesota Dense fog advisory this morning around Duluth through 11am with areas of dense freezing fog.
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Early Texas NWS Amarillo highlights snow potential Friday greatest in the Northwest Panhandle along with colder, breezy conditions behind today's front.
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Totals look light to moderate, but any snow with wind can reduce visibility and make roads slick.
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Washington High surf advisory continues for the northern coast and Grays Harbor county through 1pm today.
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Large breakers can sweep over jetties and rocks.
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All other states have no significant updates in the last 24 hours.
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Keep an eye on NWS updates as the Rockies to Plains winter system evolves and if skies are clear tonight in the north, you may catch the Aurora Source.
