A blizzard warning has been officially issued for parts of north central Kansas and central, east central, and south central Nebraska, with the most severe weather expected to arrive between 1 AM and 2 PM CDT this Wednesday. This weather alert is not just a mere announcement; it signals that people should prepare for challenging travel conditions and possible power outages as a powerful snowstorm takes shape.
What to Expect: Blizzard Conditions Are On the Way
Forecasters indicate that total snow accumulations could range anywhere from 2 to 6 inches. As heavy snow begins to fall, winds are expected to gust up to 60 miles per hour, making driving extremely hazardous and potentially dangerous.
Where is the Warning in Effect?
The areas affected include portions of north central Kansas as well as central, east central, and south central Nebraska. Residents in these regions are being urged to stay informed about the weather changes and to be ready for sudden shifts in visibility and road conditions.
When Will the Blizzard Hit?
The most critical time frame for these blizzard conditions will be from 1 AM to 2 PM CDT on Wednesday. During this period, visibility could drop below 1/4 mile due to both falling and blowing snow, leading to whiteout conditions that can confuse drivers and complicate travel.
Impacts You Should Be Aware Of
Given the severity of the impending weather, significant impacts are anticipated:
- Visibility will significantly decrease, making it hard to see the road ahead.
- Widespread blowing snow is likely, which could add to the already dangerous driving conditions.
- Travel should be restricted to emergencies only; if you must go out, be very cautious.
- The strong winds may also cause tree damage.
Precautions to Take: Stay Safe During the Blizzard
In light of the dangerous conditions expected, authorities have issued some crucial safety tips:
- If travel is unavoidable, have a winter survival kit in your vehicle. This should include warm clothing, food, water, and other supplies.
- Should you get stranded, it is advisable to stay with your vehicle for safety.
- Always stay updated with the latest road conditions, which can be found by calling 5-1-1.
- Consider delaying travel until conditions improve. If you must travel, do so with extreme caution.
Officials remind everyone that a Blizzard Warning means severe weather conditions are expected to happen. Falling and blowing snow, along with strong winds, will likely cause dangerous travel situations. It’s best to stay indoors where it’s warm and safe. If you find yourself facing this storm, please take care and heed local authority warnings.