The Nation's Weather 12.03.08

By WEATHER UNDERGROUND – 2 hours ago

Rain, snow or a mix of both were forecast for the Great Lakes region, the upper Midwest, the Plains, the Rockies and the Mississippi Valley on Wednesday, while the East and West coasts were expected to be largely dry.

Three to 5 inches of snow was forecast for the upper Midwest and northern Plains, where dangerous road conditions were expected. Lake-effect snow was predicted across northern Wisconsin and Michigan. The Rockies were forecast to get 4 to 9 inches of snow at low elevations, with 9 to 16 inches at higher elevations.

Snow showers were likely to turn to rain in the central Plains and Mississippi Valley. The southern Plains were predicted to be dry with strong winds gusting up to 30 mph, increasing fire threats across Texas.

Seasonable temperatures were expected to return to much of the East after several days of cold. Frost was possible in the Southeast, windy conditions were forecast in the mid-Atlantic and New England was predicted to dry out.

Low clouds and cool temperatures were expected along the West Coast. Snow was possible at higher elevations in the Pacific Northwest.

Temperatures in the Lower 48 states on Tuesday ranged from a low of minus 7 degrees at Embarrass, Minn., to a high of 86 degrees at Fort Stockton, Texas.