U.S. Snow Spreading East; Rescue In Morocco; UK Snow Builds, Farmers Protest Regardless; Mountain Snowpack Above Average; + Study: Antarctic Sea Ice Has Increased Since 1979

The COLD TIMES are returning...

U.S. Snow Spreading East

The storms currently dropping feet of snow on the higher reaches of the Western U.S. are shifting east, preparing to hit North Dakota late Monday with heavy snowfall, powerful winds, and a sharp drop in temperatures.

Snowfall of 8 inches is expected in north-central areas, with higher totals likely in the Turtle Mountains.

A Winter Storm Watch is in effect Monday morning through to Tuesday evening for counties including Bottineau, Rollette, and Ramsey. Travel conditions will deteriorate quickly due to slippery roads, blowing snow, and poor visibility.

In the Bismarck-Mandan area, rain will have turned to snow by Tuesday morning, and fierce northwest winds will create additional hazards as snow lingers Tuesday night. Daily highs will be in the 20s with lows tanking to the teens through the week.

Rescue In Morocco

Unusually heavy November snowfall has been reported in Morocco's Azilal mountains, stranding two hikers.

Caught off guard by the early snows, the pair lost contact Friday evening while exploring the area between Amsemrir and Zaouiat Ahansal.

With no communication from the hikers, rescue teams deployed a Royal Gendarmerie helicopter to search the snow-covered terrain. Thankfully, a break in the weather allowed crews to locate and rescue the stranded, airlifting them to Azilal hospital.

UK Snow Builds, Farmers Protest Regardless

Scotland, Northern England, and down through the West Midlands and also across Wales, the UK is copping an early taste of winter this morning (Nov 19).

Warnings have been issued, including a UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) 'amber cold weather health alert' which covers the majority of the UK from now through to Saturday evening. Dr. Agostinho Sousa of UKHSA has urged the public to check on vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly, with more cold weather expected.