US: Adverse winter weather forecast over central regions through at least early Jan. 10

Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the central US through at least early Jan. 10. A winter storm system is expected to develop over the central and southern plains Jan. 8 before tracking east-northeastward into the Midwest through Jan. 9. Heavy snowfall is expected to be accompanied by strong winds, which may lead to blizzard conditions in places. Snowfall accumulations of up to 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) are possible across parts of the affected area over the coming days, as well as winds gusting up to 70 kph (43 mph). Hazardous driving conditions are likely across the region due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

As of early Jan. 8, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued blizzard warnings across parts of eastern and southeastern Colorado, northeastern New Mexico, the northern Texas Panhandle, the Oklahoma Panhandle, western Kansas, and far southern Nebraska. Winter storm warnings have been issued for parts of central and eastern Utah, far eastern Arizona, northern and western New Mexico, east-central, southwestern, and western Colorado, central and northern Kansas, central and eastern Nebraska, southeastern South Dakota, southwestern Minnesota, central, southern, and western Iowa, and northern Missouri. Winter storm watches and weather advisories have been issued across much of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

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 is 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.

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.