Snow and ice is expected (90% to 100%) to hit the area Saturday and Sunday. The higher snow amounts are expected across north central and northeast Kansas with higher ice amounts over east central Kansas. Areas within the white oval could have the highest variability in specific amounts of snow and ice. The snow and ice will create hazardous travel conditions and any plans to travel should be altered to avoid the winter weather.
A Winter Storm Warninghas been issued from 9 AM Saturday to midnight CST Sunday night for portions of central, east central, north central, and northeast Kansas. The National Weather Service warns of heavy mixed precipitation, including 8 to 12 inches of snow, one-quarter inch of sleet, and up to two-tenths of an inch of ice. Northeast to north winds are expected to gust as high as 45 mph, creating dangerous conditions.
Impacts include whiteout conditions, making travel impossible and life-threatening. Blowing and drifting snow may lead to hazardous roads and visibility. The weight of snow and ice could also result in downed power lines and sporadic power outages.
This weekend’s winter storm is expected to begin impacting the region Saturday morning and lasting into Sunday night. The peak intensity with the heaviest precipitation is anticipated to be during the early morning hours Sunday and into Sunday afternoon. The bars show a rough time line of the forecast precipitation type for selected cities across the area.
A bitterly cold air mass is forecast to move into the region early next week. The coldest periods will be from Monday through Wednesday mornings. Wind chill values are expected to fall as low as 15 degrees below zero across the area. Be prepared for the cold weather.