A strong wind event is shaping up for Saturday night and Sunday across portions of southern California. Locals call it Santa Ana winds.

Temperatures will be 15 to 20 degrees above average over the Upper/Mid-Mississippi Valley and into the Mid-Atlantic today. Forecast highs include 42 in Minneapolis (19 degrees above average), 53 in Des Moines (22 degrees above average), 56 in Kansas City (18 degrees above average) and 55 in Philadelphia (15 degrees above average).

Except for some periods of heavy rain, snow and wind in southern Alaska, much of the country is experiencing markedly tranquil weather for this time of year.

A high wind warning is in effect for portions of southern Alaska today. Sustained west winds ranging from 35-55 mph are expected, with gusts reaching 85 mph

Temperatures will continue to fall dramatically across the eastern U.S.

Snow is falling across portions of the upper Midwest tonight and is expected to continue into the early morning. Some areas may receive up to 3 inches of snowfall. These wintry conditions will make New Year’s Eve travel hazardous.

Strong, damaging wind has redeveloped across the northern/central Rockies and High Plains, and it will spread eastward through the Plains into the upper Midwest by this evening.

Very strong winds have pummeled the northern/central Rockies and High Plains during the past day, and another round will begin this evening across the same region. High Wind Watches and Warnings are in effect. Yesterday, a gust to 117 mph was reported in Logan Pass, MT.

Strong winds are expected to impact the northern Rockies and northern Great Plains over the next few days. Wind gusts as high as 75 mph are anticipated in the terrain, while gusts up to 65 mph will be possible in the Plains

Unsettled weather can be expected in the Pacific Northwest through the mid-week period, which may lead to travel impacts. A series of disturbances will increase the amount of moisture, producing light to moderate precipitation in the region.