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December 8, 2000 — The Arctic cold outbreak which is moving out of Canada and Alaska is expected to reach Montana and Wyoming this weekend, bringing dangerously cold temperatures, according to NOAA's National Weather Service. Widespread areas of snow and icy precipitation will potentially move into the Plateau, Rockies and northern and central Great Plains early next week, creating dangerous
conditions west of the Mississippi Valley and the western Great Lakes. (Click image for larger view.)

Meanwhile, the cold air system which is expected to reach California and Arizona between Dec. 13th and 15th, could produce temperatures around 4 to 8 degrees below normal. Citizens should stay in touch with their local National Weather Service offices for area-specific data.

California officials are concerned about the impact of weather conditions on the power supply, as the state has experienced serious power shortages. On Dec. 7th, state officials declared the first stage three alert in California's history. Stage three is initiated if an operating reserve shortfall of less than one-and-a-half percent is unavoidable, and can mean involuntary curtailments of service to customers, including "rotating blackouts," during the emergency declaration.

Relevant Web Sites
The following National Weather Service Web sites are available to provide up-to-the-minute winter weather information.

Current winter storm watches, warnings and temperatures across the United States

National forecasts that extend from three to 14 days in advance

Winter weather safety and preparedness tips to handle snow, ice, wind and bitter cold temperatures

Map showing the expected extent of the Arctic air over the United States

NOAA's Weather Page — includes latest satellite images and weather maps

NOAA ISSUES NATION'S OFFICIAL WINTER OUTLOOK

NOAA Weather Radio

MAJOR ARCTIC OUTBREAK THREATENS WESTERN AND CENTRAL UNITED STATES

Media Contacts:
Curtis Carey or Susan Weaver, NOAA's National Weather Service, (301) 713-0622