A series of winter storms could hit parts of the northern United States this week and bring heavy snow and strong winds, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue winter storm watches for several states.

The country is facing an early Arctic blast that has paralyzed transportation, frozen highways, and tested energy infrastructure across thirteen states.

Numerous atmospheric signals are indicating this could be a colder and potentially snowier December. Where the active storm track sets up is the question.

Americans in two states have been told to brace for heavy snow that is likely to create hazardous travel conditions in fresh winter storm warnings issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). Winter storm warnings for parts of the West and Alaska will potentially impact holiday travel and local communities with difficult roadways.

NOAA issues their winter outlook for the months of December through February, with a weak La Niña as the primary influence on what we can expect.