The nation's weather

[November 12, 2011]  (AP)  More rain and snow was expected to persist in the West, while the East remained quiet on Saturday. Two weather features over the western U.S. were expected to bring more precipitation to the region.

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To the south, a low pressure system spinning off the coast of California continued to move southward, remaining just offshore. However, flow around this system was expected to continue pushing cool and moist air onshore, allowing for scattered showers to develop along the coastal regions. Only light showers were anticipated in the interiors, while light snow may persist in the Sierras.

Meanwhile, to the north, a trough of low pressure was expected to quickly advance southeastward from the Pacific Northwest and into the northern Rocky Mountains. Moderate to heavy snow showers were expected in addition to strong winds across Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. Snowfall accumulation was expected to range from 4 to 8 inches, with up to a foot at the highest mountain peaks. With strong wind gusts from 30 to 40 mph, dangerous travel conditions were expected, especially at high mountain passes. Travelers should use caution on the roads.

In the East, a low pressure system in eastern Canada was expected to move farther eastward and away from the region. The Great Lakes region was expected to start drying out as lake-effect rain and snow showers diminished. High pressure over the Plains was expected to slide eastward, bringing more dry and cool air into the East. However, plenty of daytime sunshine was expected to allow for a gradual warming trend. The Southeast and lower Mississippi River Valley were expected to see slightly warmer temperatures, with highs reaching into the mid-60. The Northeast and Great Lakes were expected to see highs in the mid-50s.

Temperatures in the Lower 48 states Friday ranged from a morning low of 1 degree at West Yellowstone, Mont., to a high of 88 degrees at Fort Stockton, Texas.

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http://iwin.nws.noaa.gov/

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http://www.intellicast.com/

[Associated Press article from Weather Underground]

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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