Winter Storm Warnings for 15 Feet of Snow and 100+ MPH Winds Loom

The National Weather Service and a veteran meteorologist are forecasting winter storm warnings that could bring 15 feet of snow and wind gusts beyond 100 mph in the coming days. The barrage of systems that will hit the West Coast is predicted to pose risks of power outages and periods of whiteout conditions that can make safe travel impossible.

Where the 15 Feet of Snow and 100+ MPH Winds Are Expected

The National Weather Service in Reno, Nevada, issued an urgent winter storm warning on February 16, 2026. It calls for wind gusts exceeding 100 mph striking the Sierra Nevada ridges, a region that falls in California and Nevada. It also forecasted that areas alongside highway US-395, which runs through California, Nevada, and Washington, could face gusts of 60 to 70 mph.

On February 15, 2026, the NBC News affiliate WFLA-TV's "Chief Meteorologist and Climate Specialist," Jeff Berardelli, posted on X about several winter storms heading for the West Coast. In particular, he warned that the highest regions of the Sierra Nevada will face five storms in 15 days that could potentially bring 15 feet of snow. He also noted that if the models hold up, the snow accumulation could exceed even that staggering number.

"We say #snowmageddon as a joke, but if ever there was a time to use it, it’s now!! Watch as the West Coast gets bombarded by at least 5 storms in 15 days, with up to 15 feet of snow in the high Sierra, and that may be an underestimate if the models verify. NWS says 8 feet possible by Wednesday. Incredible! #snow"

We say #snowmageddon as a joke, but if ever there was a time to use it, it’s now!! Watch as the West Coast gets bombarded by at least 5 storms in 15 days, with up to 15 feet of snow in the high Sierra, and that may be an underestimate if the models verify. NWS says 8 feet… pic.twitter.com/ynMvapST4A

— Jeff Berardelli (@WeatherProf) February 16, 2026

Berardelli is an accomplished meteorologist with extensive experience. A Columbia Climate School profile of him describes him as an on-air TV meteorologist with 20 years of experience. His WFLA-TV profile states that he earned his bachelor’s degree in atmospheric sciences from Cornell University.

How to Prepare for Winter Storm Travel If You Must Drive

The National Weather Service's warning calling for extreme wind speeds also predicts that the system will make it very difficult, if not impossible, to drive due to whiteout conditions. That is why anyone in the affected areas should stay off the roads whenever possible and keep a very close eye on local forecasts. If travel is necessary during winter storm conditions, it is wise to be prepared. A Men's Journal guide on how to build a winter storm travel kit, based on expert advice, recommends bringing the following.

• Flashlight (preferably crank-type, because batteries don’t last long in extreme cold)
• Reflective safety triangles or flares
• Small first-aid kit
• Snow brush and scraper
• Traction aids
• Small shovel with long handle
• Bag of abrasive material: sand, kitty litter (avoid road salt, which can cause your vehicle to rust)
• Plenty of windshield washer fluid
• Booster cables
• Gas-line antifreeze
• Lock de-icer (in extreme cold, keep it with you, rather than in your vehicle!)
• Paper towels
• Small tool kit (screwdriver, pliers, etc.)
• Extra fuses (for the vehicle’s electrical system)
• Warm blanket
• Extra socks, boots and gloves
• Hand and foot warmers
• Bottles of water
• Granola bars