US: Heavy snow forecast for central Plains, Midwest January 11-13

Event

A winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow and freezing rain to large parts of the central Plains and Midwest, from Colorado to Illinois, from Friday, January 11, to Sunday, January 13. An estimated 10-20 cm (4-8 in) of snowfall is expected in the greater St. Louis metropolitan area (Missouri and Illinois), around 5-12.5 cm (2-5 in) around the Kansas City region (Missouri and Kansas), and over 30 cm (12 in) is forecast for the Front Range in Colorado. Winter precipitation of rain and sleet is forecast to begin on Friday afternoon (local time) before transitioning to snow until around 00:00 on Sunday. Freezing rain is also expected in southern Missouri and northern Arkansas.

Transportation disruptions, including flight delays and cancelations, are possible, particularly at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) and Kansas City International Airport (MCI). Adverse driving conditions, including slick roads and limited visibility, are also possible. Power and telecommunication disruptions cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Individuals in the affected regions are advised to monitor local weather reports and anticipate adverse driving conditions and power, telecommunication, and transportation disruptions, including flight delays and cancelations.