The National Weather Service in North Platte has issued a Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 7 PM CDT/6 PM MDT/Saturday to 1 PM CDT/noon MDT/Sunday. Its reported to accumulating snow likely Saturday night into Sunday morning.
Snow, possibly heavy at times, is expected to produce accumulations of up to 4 inches, with localized amounts around 6 inches.
Heaviest snowfall is predicted between Ellsworth, Hyannis, Arthur, Mullen and Tryon with lighter amounts north and south of these areas.
Hazards can include: Accumulating snow. Snow and ice covered roadways. Visibility 1/4 to 1/2 mile at times.
Areas Impacted: The Sandhills (near and north of highway 2) south through Interstate 80.
Time & Duration: The snow begins Saturday evening in the west and ends in the east Sunday morning. 6 to 9 hours of snow, possibly heavy at times.
Impacts may have snow melt and refreeze on the roads creating ice. Temperatures in the lower 20s with light winds Saturday night through Sunday morning.
Winter Weather Quick Facts and Preparedness:
Quick facts you should know about winter weather:
- Snow can occur at temperatures as high as 46 degrees if conditions are right.
- The record for most snowfall in the Lower 48 in a 24 hour period is 75.8 at Silver Lake, Colorado in 1921.
- Blizzard conditions are met when visibility in falling and blowing snow reaches mile or less and sustained wind speeds of 35 mph or greater occur for 3 hours or more.
- As little as 1/16 of ice can begin to impact roadways and sidewalks.
- As the wind increases, the body is cooled at a faster rate. The wind chill is a way for meteorologists to communicate what the combination of wind and temperature feels like to exposed skin.
Preparedness:
- – A Winter Storm Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for significant winter weather and/or blizzard conditions. Time to prepare!
- – A Winter Storm Warning is issued when a combination of heavy snow, blowing snow, and possibly ice mixed with snow is expected to impact the area. Time to act!
- – A Blizzard Warning is issued when the combination of strong wind, low visibility, and heavy snow will significantly impact daily life.