There have been plenty of, and will continue to be plenty of, storms for the spring. This weekend will be highlighted by snow and severe weather. Behind that? Historic warmth.

A double round of hot weather is coming for the western US, and will end ski season and all the good vibes of a healthy winter of moisture. We aren’t just talking a little warm, either. By the middle of next week, places like St. George, Utah could see triple digits. On St. Patrick’s Day!

A strong, standing ridge will arc over the western Continental US. Despite a good system in the Gulf of Alaska, the hot high pressure is going to be stuck in. The jet will eventually weaken, but not necessarily move. The heat may wear off as March wears on, but it will not ever fully go away, not for a while, anyhow.

The real hazard will ultimately come from the strength of the surface ridge, and whether or not Santa Ana winds compound things in Southern California.

And yes, between the last two posts here, it’s been a real roller coaster.