Weather Alert Day: Snowfall could impact holiday travel on Saturday

An ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Alert Day has been issued for the first snowfall of the season on Saturday which could impact holiday travel.

SATURDAY MORNING UPDATE

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for counties near and along I-70 until 6 p.m. Saturday for blowing snow and slick roadways. Snow totals remain healthy in this morning's forecast, reaching 2 to 4 inches over a long stretch of I-70. Snow amounts drop off to the north and south so travel impacts will be limited across other parts of the region.

SETUP

Deep northwesterly flow has cooled temperatures below freezing across the region as a quick-moving system tracks through the Midwest.

This is an Alberta Clipper, a quick-moving disturbance characterized by fast storm motion, dry air, and low moisture. Snowfall amounts are usually low and snow is dry and fluffy.

FUTURETRACK

Snow coverage will increase through the morning along I-70, with the heaviest snow band falling in a 25- to 30-mile-wide swath around the highway. Snow rates could exceed 1" per hour by late morning, heavily reducing visibility. Due to warmer temperatures, precipitation sharply switches to cold rain for the Lake area, Rolla, and areas southward. Precipitation comes to an end areawide before sundown.

Even in areas that see just rain, a freeze overnight will cause concern for more slick roads into Sunday. Air temperatures don't reach above freezing again until Tuesday.

IMPACTS

If you're traveling, shopping around town, or heading to the MU football game, roads will be slushy and visibility could be a challenge on the interstates.

Pack plenty of winter gear for the roads these holidays. A first aid kit, blankets, extra batteries and gas, and sandbags are just a few things to keep around. Being aware of the forecast and road conditions before heading out is always most important.