MoDOT and the National Weather Service preps for winter storm
This afternoon, MoDOT held a joint press conference with partners, including the National Weather Service, about the winter storm that is expected this weekend. The main message from the National Weather Service was that this is going to be a major winter storm with dangerous temperatures, and that staying indoors and off the roads, if possible, is essential with this event.
They stated that the dangerous cold will be present before, during, and after the event, but they expect the first onset of snow by Friday night, lasting throughout Saturday morning. They expected the second round to begin early Sunday morning, and they say they anticipate it to linger into Sunday evening.
This large and impactful event is all occurring because of two main pressure systems, causing not only arctic air, but also the accumulating snow over the weekend as well. The high-pressure system coming in from the north is bringing the intense cold with it, which is why, at first, we will experience the extreme cold starting Friday morning. The other system that we have been watching is the large low-pressure system arriving off the west coast. This will bring the rising motions and moisture with it in order to cause all the problems that are expected this weekend.
As the low-pressure system gets closer to this arctic high-pressure system, the low will start pulling in moisture from the Gulf, and also provide the lift needed to force the moisture into the upper levels of the atmosphere. Once the upper levels of the atmosphere are saturated, the precipitation will begin, and it won't let up until both of these systems have moved out of the region.
For the cold, those who are sensitive to it or are not properly protected before heading outdoors will be at risk to cold related injuries. As for snow, the National Weather Service expected the highest totals along and south of I-70, and warns that in these areas, high impacts to life are expected. For areas north of I-70, confidence is lower on totals reaching significant amounts, but widespread snow and dangerously cold wind chills will still be expected for all of Missouri.
The National Weather Service is still waiting to nail down exact totals, as the model data is constantly updating and changing. They expect to get a better picture about exact amounts by the end of this evening and by tomorrow morning, but want to emphasize the importance of staying up to date with the changes expected to occur with this event.
Even with uncertainty in the forecast, it is certain that everyone will receive at least some amount of snowfall and that everyone will be experiencing a prolonged period of time where bitterly cold temperatures are present. Due to the magnitude of this event, staying up to date and aware of all new information is essential so that the impact on life is held to a minimum. The ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team will be one of the outlets available to you in order to prepare for the storm.
