21 Mar 2022 | 12:22 PM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast in central regions through at least March 22
Adverse winter weather forecast across central parts of the US through at least March 22. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across central parts of the US through at least March 22. Heavy snowfall is expected across parts of the central and southern Rockies and into Kansas and the Oklahoma and Texas panhandles. Snowfall accumulations of over 20 cm (8 inches) are likely at higher elevated areas near the Colorado-New Mexico border and around 10 cm (4 inches) is possible at lower elevations across the rest of the affected area. The snowfall will likely be accompanied by strong winds that will likely cause hazardous driving conditions due to reduced visibility caused by blowing and drifting snow.
Government Advisories
As of March 21, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for parts of southeastern Colorado and northeastern New Mexico. Winter weather advisories have been issued for parts of central and eastern Colorado, western Kansas, western and central New Mexico, western Oklahoma, and northern Texas.
Hazardous Conditions
Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area. Lesser accumulations are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow, and precipitation are less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in some areas. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. If routing shipments by truck through the affected area, plan accordingly for delivery delays. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
