Significant storms brewing for West Coast with extreme double-digit feet of mountain snow, heavy rain

Published: Friday, February 13, 2026 at 12:50 am

West Coast Braces for Intense Storms, Offering Drought Relief

A series of powerful storms are poised to hit the West Coast, bringing much-needed precipitation to a region grappling with severe drought conditions. The forecast includes significant mountain snow and heavy rainfall, offering potential relief to areas experiencing the worst snow drought in decades.

The Upper Colorado Basin is particularly affected, facing record-low snowpack levels for this time of year. Cities like Salt Lake City, Utah, and Grand Junction, Colorado, have endured extended periods without significant snowfall, highlighting the severity of the drought.

A large dip in the jet stream is expected to stall over the West starting Sunday, creating an active weather pattern. This will usher in multiple storms, delivering substantial snowfall to mountainous regions and rain to lower elevations.

The initial storm will impact California, with a strong area of low pressure driving heavy rain across the state. Subsequent storms are expected to follow, bringing more precipitation. Mountain areas are forecast to receive extreme snowfall, potentially reaching double-digit feet in some locations.

Southern California is also bracing for heavy rainfall, with up to five inches possible in cities like Los Angeles and San Diego. This could lead to flash flooding, particularly in areas affected by last year's wildfires. Currently, a flash flood threat is in place.

The NOAA Climate Prediction Center anticipates above-average precipitation across much of the West through the end of February, suggesting the current storm system is part of a larger pattern of increased moisture.

BNN's Perspective: While the incoming storms offer a welcome respite from the ongoing drought, the potential for flash flooding and the intensity of the weather events underscore the need for preparedness. It is crucial for residents to stay informed about the latest forecasts and heed warnings from local authorities. The long-term impact of these storms on drought conditions remains to be seen, but the immediate relief is a positive development for the region.

Keywords: West Coast storms, drought, mountain snow, heavy rain, flash flooding, jet stream, California, Southern California, El Nino, precipitation, NOAA, weather forecast, snow drought

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