Weather Alert Day: System remains on track as winter storm arrives tonight

SATURDAY PM UPDATE

Wintry precipitation has begun across central Missouri, and will continue to become more widespread throughout the evening. Intensity and coverage will increase after 8-9 PM tonight, and stay persistent throughout Sunday. Heavy snow is expected along and north of I-70 while dangerous ice is forecast across the Lake area and the Ozarks in southeast MO.

Regardless of precipitation type or amount, travel will be hazardous or nearly impossible across the area, with a particular concern for power outages where ice accumulates. Preparations should be finished right now and you need to be where you plan to stay for the weekend.

Along with consistent snow and ice throughout Sunday, winds will also become stronger throughout the day. Chariton county is in a Blizzard Warning because of this, but gusty winds could cause visibility issues for the rest of central Missouri through Sunday.

SETUP:

A Winter Storm Warning is in effect areawide as a winter storm moves directly through the region. The track of this system through southern Missouri is a textbook setup for wintry precipitation in our area. Arctic air on its heels will usher in the coldest air of the season early next week.

TIMING:

Light precipitation may begin as early as sundown in western Missouri but better coverage and intensity increases from 9 p.m. onward. The bulk of the precipitation falls throughout Sunday as the low slides by to the south of us through the day.

Precipitation switches to snow areawide by Sunday night into Monday as the system departs, with flurries ending just after sunrise Monday morning.

HAZARDS

Heavy snow is favored near and north of I-70 with the highest totals possibly reaching a foot or more. There is some uncertainty right along the interstate as snow will mix with sleet; at least a half foot combined is still expected from I-70 south to Jefferson City. Precipitation switches to predominantly freezing rain at the Lake and over to I-44; while totals look shallower here, it takes very little ice to cause problems.

Moderate to major travel impacts and extensive power outages are expected across the region from the combination of snow and ice. High winds will compound this problem with wind gusts above 30 mph at times during the event. This will be especially concerning for icy power lines and drifting snow.

Behind all of this will be deep arctic cold that may push overnight lows below zero.

IMPACTS:

Conditions deteriorate Saturday night with the worst impacts throughout the day Sunday. Travel may be nearly impossible on Sunday as precipitation outpaces road crews. Extreme cold will keep ice on the ground into Monday so have a plan in place for several days.

It is best to stay indoors all of Sunday and early Monday. If you absolutely need to head out, pack necessities for the car and do not leave your vehicle if stranded. Keep outside pipes covered from the extreme cold and leave taps dripping when lows plunge to single digits or worse. Always check back in for new updates ahead of and during the storm.