March Madness: Another Powerful Cross-Country Storm Poised to Strike
A second intense March storm is set to sweep across the United States this week, bringing severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, wildfire threats, and blizzard conditions. The system, which follows last week’s destructive storm, will first drench the West Coast before gaining strength and moving eastward with full force.
West Coast Braces for Heavy Rain and Debris Flows
The storm will hit the West Coast on Wednesday, unleashing heavy rain at lower elevations and significant snowfall in mountainous regions. An atmospheric river will fuel the deluge, increasing the risk of flooding in California, particularly in areas recently scorched by wildfires.
Los Angeles and San Diego, which have seen below-average rainfall since October, will finally receive much-needed precipitation. However, the storm’s intensity raises concerns about debris flows, especially in burn scar areas. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for about 120 homes near the Palisades burn scar, with officials warning residents to be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice.
Strong winds and blizzard-like conditions will also make travel hazardous, particularly in the Sierra Nevada, where several feet of snow are expected. The Pacific Coast Highway will be closed in sections due to flooding risks.
Storm Expands Across the West on Thursday
As the system pushes inland, rain and snow will spread into the Rocky Mountains, creating hazardous travel conditions. Wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph will make the situation even more dangerous, with higher speeds expected in mountainous regions. California’s snowpack, currently at 81% of normal, stands to benefit from the additional snowfall, which could help sustain the state’s water supply.
Storm Strengthens in the Plains on Friday
By Friday, the storm will intensify dramatically as it moves into the central U.S., triggering a volatile mix of severe thunderstorms, strong winds, and extreme fire danger.
A surge of warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico will collide with the system’s powerful cold front, setting the stage for violent thunderstorms from Louisiana to Iowa. The National Weather Service warns that damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes are all possible.
Winds of 40 to 65 mph will blast across Texas and New Mexico, significantly elevating wildfire risks. Similar conditions last week led to multiple wildfires in Texas.
Blizzard and Severe Storms Hit the East on Saturday
As the storm tracks further east, severe weather will impact the Ohio Valley, Gulf Coast, and Southeastern states. The threat of tornadoes will increase, particularly at night, when reduced visibility makes them especially deadly.
The northern-central U.S. will experience heavy snow, ice, and strong winds, potentially creating whiteout blizzard conditions. Last week’s storm caused extensive highway closures and vehicle strandings; a similar scenario could unfold this weekend.
By Sunday, the East Coast will see widespread rain and thunderstorms, with some severe storms lingering. However, the intensity is expected to gradually weaken.
Authorities across affected regions are urging residents to remain alert, as this storm is shaping up to be another destructive force in an already turbulent March weather pattern.
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March Madness: Another Powerful Cross-Country Storm Poised to Strike