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Severe winter storm warnings issued across six states

Dec 7, 2025, 5:43 AM20
(Update: Dec 9, 2025, 11:33 AM)
U.S. forecasting agency of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Severe winter storm warnings issued across six states

  • Winter storm warnings are in effect for Alaska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Wyoming due to expected heavy snowfall and potentially fatal conditions.
  • Travel advisories recommend avoiding unnecessary journeys, particularly in Iowa where hazardous icy conditions have been reported.
  • Residents should stay informed about evolving weather conditions and prepare for the worsening weather throughout the week.
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In December 2025, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued winter storm warnings for several states including Alaska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These warnings came in response to forecasted heavy snow accumulation, with some areas expecting as much as 20 inches, along with strong winds reaching up to 65 mph. The warnings indicated life-threatening conditions, urging residents to take precautions and avoid unnecessary travel. States such as Iowa, particularly in counties like Floyd, Chickasaw, and Fayette, were warned about slippery road conditions, while other regions faced rapid accumulations and potential blizzard warnings over the following days. Alaska is projected to experience some of the harshest winter conditions, with accumulated snow totals expected to rise significantly, particularly in Hyder where 16 to 20 inches are anticipated along with extremely low temperatures that could lead to frostbite. As a crucial measure to prevent accidents and injuries, the NWS advised travelers to carry extra supplies, including food, water, and warm clothing, due to the risk of being stranded in severe conditions. In the Midwest, Iowa's weather conditions were notably hazardous, with travel being dismissed as “very difficult” or “impossible” in various regions due to heavy snowfall covering roads. The warnings were supplemented by advisories on cold wind chills that could exacerbate discomfort and danger from frostbite for those caught outside for extended periods. In states like Wyoming, blizzard conditions are expected to limit visibility and create dangerous travel scenarios, with the NWS reporting that specific areas could receive up to five feet of snow. The NWS has highlighted this ongoing winter weather as part of a larger trend of severe storms hitting the Midwest and Northeast, following a streak of similar events throughout the month. There are ongoing concerns regarding 'record cold' temperatures, prompting repeated alerts as cold air continues to spread into the eastern United States. As heavy snow continues to accumulate, residents are warned to stay informed and monitor updates throughout this active storm system.

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