Blizzard Warnings tomorrow, heavy snow and strong winds
Winter Weather Alerts have been issued for the Sunflower State as we kick off the new week. Starting tonight, snowfall will creep into western Kansas, making its way east by Monday.
In western Kansas, Blizzard Warnings are in place due to the anticipated heavy snowfall and strong winds. These conditions could lead to treacherous travel conditions with slippery roads and limited visibility.
Northern Kansas is under Winter Storm Warnings, with heavy snow expected but slightly less intense winds compared to the western part of the state.
As for southcentral and eastern Kansas, Winter Weather Advisories are in effect. While snowfall totals in these regions will be lower, travel is still likely to be hazardous.
Tonight, temperatures will drop into the 20s and 30s, but moisture will not arrive until early Monday morning.
On Monday morning, as we head out the door, heavy rain will sweep through most of the area. Fortunately, temperatures will stay above freezing for the majority of the state, resulting in primarily rainfall. However, in northwest Kansas, where temperatures struggle to reach 30 degrees, snowfall is expected.
Central Kansas may experience some dry time in the afternoon as the low pressure system moves eastward. In contrast, western Kansas will receive cold air and moisture wrapping around the storm, resulting in prolonged snowfall throughout the day.
Western Kansas will also see winds shifting to the north earlier in the day as the low advances eastward. Consequently, temperatures in this region will struggle to surpass freezing, while central Kansas will be able to reach the upper 30s and low 40s.
Snowfall will become more widespread throughout Monday night, accompanied by a drop in temperatures from the rushing northerly winds.
Expect strong winds to persist behind the low, with gusts of up to 50 MPH possible. When combined with heavy snowfall, visibility will be drastically reduced, and travel conditions will be treacherous. Avoid unnecessary travel, especially during the evening and overnight hours.
Wind Advisories have been issued for Kay and Harper counties in Oklahoma, in effect until 6 PM Tuesday.
Widespread snowfall will continue into early Tuesday morning before gradually coming to an end as the low pressure system moves away. By the time most people head out to school and work, snowfall should have ceased.
The heaviest bands of snowfall are expected in western and northern Kansas. Along the I-70 corridor, snowfall totals could range from 4 to over 8 inches. Southeast Kansas is likely to experience the lowest snowfall totals, with areas near Wichita and Medicine Lodge expecting less than 2 inches.
Temperatures will slowly rebound by the middle of the week, only to plummet once again by the weekend. An arctic blast is forecasted to arrive on Friday, leading to high temperatures only in the teens.
Additionally, there is a possibility of snow returning to the Sunflower State next weekend with the arrival of a disturbance bringing moisture.
According to Meteorologist Lucy Doll from KSN Storm Track 3, Wichita residents can expect a mostly cloudy and windy night, with a 60% chance of rain. Temperatures will drop to around 35 degrees, while southeasterly winds will blow at 15-25 mph.
On Monday, Wichita will experience cloudy and windy conditions, with a 90% chance of rain and snow. High temperatures will reach around 40 degrees, with winds shifting to the southeast and east, blowing at 15-25 mph.
Monday night will remain overcast and windy, with a 70% chance of rain transitioning into snow. Low temperatures will drop to around 24 degrees, with winds coming from the east and north at 15-30 mph.
As the blizzard warnings and winter weather advisories take effect, it is crucial to stay informed and prepared for the inclement weather. Stay safe, avoid unnecessary travel, and bundle up as winter makes a fierce return to Kansas.
