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[November 05, 2011] (AP) A significant snowstorm was expected to persist across the Rocky Mountains on Saturday, while the East started to dry out.

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A trough of low pressure over the West Coast was expected to advance eastward over the Rocky Mountains. This system was expected to produce heavy snow for the Great Basin and central Rockies. Winter weather advisories remained in effect for region, as 3 to 5 inches of snow are likely across Utah and up to 12 inches of snow are expected in Colorado. Strong winds were expected to accompany this system, with gusts ranging between 35 and 45 mph. Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling across high mountain passes in these dangerous conditions.

Behind this system, the West Coast will see a short break in wet weather as a mild trough builds in before another trough approaches from the Gulf of Alaska. Mostly sunny skies and cool temperatures were expected across California and the Pacific Northwest.

In the East, a ridge of high pressure continued to build from the Plains, over the Mississippi River Valley and over the eastern valleys. This would allow for a gradual warming trend due to plenty of daytime sunshine. However, overnight conditions were expected to remain chilly as clear skies allow for rapid cooling. The southern Plains were expected to return to the 60s and 70s, while the Midwest remains in the 50s. The leading edge of this ridge was expected to push cool Canadian air over the Eastern Seaboard, causing temperatures to remain below seasonable on Saturday.

Temperatures in the Lower 48 states Friday ranged from a morning low of 1 degree at Kremmling, Colo., to a high of 86 degrees at Phoenix, Ariz.

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Online:

Weather Underground: http://www.wunderground.com/

National Weather Service:
http://iwin.nws.noaa.gov/

Intellicast:
http://www.intellicast.com/

[Associated Press article from Weather Underground]