Snowy Christmas weekend for the Rockies as two storms combine forces

Snow is on the way for the Rockies and High Plains just in time for Christmas weekend as two storms join up to create a white Christmas for some.

The low pressure system that continues to bring rain to southern California will be on the move Friday, tracking inland. This will bring rain and the flood threat into the Desert Southwest Friday and into Friday night. This troublesome low is just one part of the equation that will bring snow to the Rockies and High Plains.

The Four Corners will be the first to see snow as the storm from California pushes further inland. The precipitation will likely begin as a rain in many areas before the cold air rushes in and transitioning to a coating to an inch of snow by Friday night and Saturday in cities like Flagstaff, Ariz.

We mentioned that the low is just part of the equation. The WeatherRadar shows a cold front moving onshore in the Pacific Northwest Friday and into Saturday. Eventually this front and the California low clash and join forces to bring a white Christmas to some lucky folks. Light to moderate snowfall will start up Friday night into Saturday morning over the central and northern Rockies, with cities like Salt Lake City, Casper, Wyo., Denver, and Colorado Springs., Colo., seeing flakes flying.

Snow totals will vary, but Denver will see between 2 and 4 inches, and possibly more, through the end of the weekend. The highest snow totals are expected in Colorado's mountains where 12 to 18 inches are possible. Up to half a foot of snow may fall in the Southern Plains, with cities such as Casper, Wyo., and Rapid City, S.D., picking up 3 to 6 inches.

While many in the Rockies and High Plains may be excited to have snow on the ground in time for Christmas, these two clashing systems will mean travel trouble, especially on Saturday. Adjust your travel plans accordingly and keep up with the latest on our WeatherRadar.