Winter Storm Warning map: active winter storm warnings now
There are no winter storm warnings in effect right now. The most recent one in the NWS archive was issued on November 13, 2026 in California.
Heavy snow, sleet or ice is expected that will make travel very dangerous or impossible.
Updated from the National Weather Service · lists refresh hourly; the live map loads current alerts directly from the NWS
Active winter storm warnings
None right now. This page updates automatically when the National Weather Service issues a new winter storm warning.
What is a winter storm warning?
A winter storm warning means a significant winter storm is happening or is expected within about 36 hours. It can be issued for heavy snow, a mix of snow and sleet, or snow with freezing rain. Each local National Weather Service office sets its own criteria based on what disrupts life in that area, so a few inches can trigger a warning in the South while northern and mountain offices use much higher snowfall totals.
The warning text lists the expected totals, the timing, and the impacts on travel and power. Warnings are usually preceded by a winter storm watch and can be upgraded to a blizzard or ice storm warning if wind or ice becomes the main threat.
What to do
- Avoid travel if you can. If you must drive, carry a winter kit with blankets, water, a shovel and a phone charger.
- Charge devices and prepare for power outages.
- Bring pets inside and protect pipes from freezing.
- Check on older neighbors and relatives.
How often winter storm warnings are issued
From 2016 through 2025 the National Weather Service issued an average of 679 winter storm warnings per year across the country, and 355 so far in 2026. Each count is one alert event, which can cover one or many counties.
States with the most winter storm warnings
| State | Average per year |
|---|---|
| California | 70 |
| Alaska | 59 |
| Wyoming | 52.2 |
| Montana | 50.3 |
| Colorado | 47 |
| Washington | 42 |
| Minnesota | 35.2 |
| Idaho | 32.8 |
| Michigan | 31.9 |
| Wisconsin | 31.6 |
| New York | 30.6 |
| Oregon | 29.5 |
| Nebraska | 23.6 |
| West Virginia | 22.1 |
| Pennsylvania | 20.3 |
Winter Storm Warnings by state
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Related alerts
Frequently asked questions
How much snow is needed for a winter storm warning?
It depends on your local NWS office. Many northern offices use about six inches in 12 hours or eight inches in 24 hours, while southern offices use lower amounts.
What is the difference between a winter storm watch and a winter storm warning?
A watch means a significant storm is possible, usually 12 to 48 hours ahead. A warning means it is happening or expected soon with high confidence.
Is a winter weather advisory less serious than a warning?
Yes. An advisory is for snow, sleet or freezing rain that will cause inconvenience and slippery roads but stays below warning criteria.