Two storm systems are hitting America on Monday, October 26, 2026, with thunderstorms warned across 16 states and winter weather across seven states, forecasters said.
The National Weather Service warned 16 states about potentially damaging thunderstorms on Monday: Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Florida, Minnesota, Iowa and Missouri. Hazards listed include strong thunder and lightning, heavy rain and wind, and large hail.
Separately, winter weather arrived the same day across seven states: Alaska plus Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota and North Dakota. Alaska was the biggest concern, with National Weather Service warnings extending into Monday night, up to 16 inches of snow and wind gusts reaching 55 mph.
In the northern Plains, the NOAA Weather Prediction Center flagged the Black Hills and parts of north-western South Dakota and south-central North Dakota for accumulating snow on Monday. AccuWeather senior meteorologist Bob Smerbeck warned the Black Hills could receive several inches, while the National Weather Service’s Rapid City forecast for Rapid City itself was more restrained, at under half an inch on Monday — mountain totals should not be confused with city totals. Safety guidance carried by the reports includes going inside a sturdy building during severe thunderstorms, staying away from windows, never sheltering under a tree, and taking pets indoors if time allows. This is a forecast and warning story, not a damage report, and no casualties, closures or damage figures are reported here. It is distinct from the Southwest severe storms of October 25.
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Bhudev Bhagaliya is an experienced and senior journalist who has carved a distinct niche for himself in the world of Hindi journalism through his profound understanding and precise writing style. With over two decades of experience in the field of journalism, he has held key responsibilities at Dainik Hindustan for 12 years and at Amar Ujala for one year. Currently, he serves as the Content Editor for the Jagrook Youth News newspaper and portal, where he plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and credibility of the news content. Bhudev Bhagaliya consistently writes about issues that help raise awareness within society and among the younger generation.