23 Jan 2023 | 03:14 PM UTC
US: Adverse winter weather forecast over southern and central regions through at least Jan. 26
Heavy snowfall forecast across parts of the southern and central US through at least Jan. 26. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the southern and central US through at least Jan. 26. A winter storm developing over the Southwest Jan. 23 is expected to eject out of the Rockies and track eastward over the southern plains Jan. 24 before moving northeastward towards the Ohio Vally Jan. 25. The system will bring a swath of heavy snowfall over the regions it passes over, with snowfall accumulations of more than 15 cm (6 inches) possible across parts of affected areas. The heavy snowfall will likely be accompanied by strong wind gusts. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.
Government Advisories
As of Jan. 23, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings across parts of central and eastern New Mexico and northern Texas Winter storm watches have been issued across parts of central and eastern Oklahoma, northwestern Arkansas, southern and eastern Missouri, south-central Illinois, central and northern Indiana, far southern Michigan, and western Ohio. Winter weather advisories have been issued across much of the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area, especially at higher elevations. 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.
