Archive · 30 Sep 2026
Hybrid Storm Forecast to Bring Heavy Rain and Early Snow
A large storm is expected to affect much of the central United States.
It will bring a lot of rain to the Southwest and other regions.
The storm is called a hybrid storm because it combines tropical moisture with another weather system.
Rain may continue for several days.
Some places could experience flooding or dangerous flash floods.
New Mexico is considered one of the areas at greatest risk.
The highest Colorado mountain peaks could also receive snow.
Forecasters say snow chances may be highest early Thursday morning, around October 1.
A major storm system is forecast to bring heavy rain across the Southwest and central United States.
The National Weather Service says the event could produce several days of rain extending into the Midwest and southern Plains.
Meteorologists describe the system as a hybrid storm involving tropical moisture from hurricanes and another storm moving from the west.
Flooding, including dangerous flash flooding, is possible from Arizona toward Chicago, with New Mexico facing particular concern.
Snow could fall above 11,000 feet in the Colorado Rockies, potentially beginning around October 1.
- Who
- The National Weather Service, AccuWeather meteorologists, and residents of the affected regions.
- What
- A hybrid storm is forecast to bring heavy rain, possible flooding, and early-season mountain snow.
- When
- During the week described in the forecast, with snow chances peaking early Thursday morning around October 1.
- Where
- From Arizona across the Southwest and central United States toward Chicago, including the Colorado Rockies, Midwest, and southern Plains.
- Why
- Residual tropical moisture from hurricanes is expected to combine with another storm moving in from the west.
- Storm type
- A hybrid storm combining tropical moisture and another weather system
- Rainfall area
- The Southwest, central United States, Midwest, and southern Plains
- Potential impact
- Several days of heavy rain, with flooding possible in some areas
- Highest flash-flood concern
- New Mexico, according to AccuWeather chief meteorologist Jon Porter
- Snow elevation
- Above 11,000 feet
- Snow location
- The highest elevations of the Colorado Rockies
- Snow timing
- Chances expected to peak early Thursday morning around October 1