A strong winter storm is on track to sweep through the Plains and Midwest on Tuesday, March 18, delivering substantial snowfall from Colorado to Wisconsin. Anticipated snowfall rates range from 1 to 2 inches per hour, with some areas likely to experience even higher amounts. Additionally, wind gusts topping 50 mph are forecasted in the impacted regions.
In the coming days, the areas that will be most affected by heavy snowfall are northern Kansas, southern Minnesota, and much of Wisconsin. Weather forecasts predict that these regions could see snow accumulations of over 15 cm (6 inches) by Thursday evening, March 20.
Blizzard warnings are currently in place from Scott City in southwestern Kansas to Red Wing in southern Minnesota, spanning across much of Nebraska and northwestern Iowa. Parts of southeastern South Dakota and southern Minnesota are under winter weather advisories. Moreover, winter storm warnings and wind advisories have been issued for areas in Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, and Iowa.
A low-pressure system will likely strengthen, leading to significant snowfall in the Central Plains from Tuesday night to Thursday morning as it progresses towards the Upper Midwest and western Great Lakes.
A considerable amount of snow is forecasted to accumulate from Nebraska to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. There is a high likelihood of snowfall reaching 15 cm (6 inches) across the area, with some areas having a 30% chance of receiving up to 30 cm (12 inches) of snow by Thursday evening.
The forecast predicts strong winds in the southern Plains reaching speeds between 80 and 95 km/h (50-60 mph), with some areas experiencing gusts surpassing 130 km/h (80 mph) from Tuesday to Wednesday.
Strong winds and heavy snowfall are set to create blizzard conditions and whiteout visibility on roadways, posing a significant risk for travelers. The National Weather Service (NWS) is urging residents in impacted regions to refrain from traveling unless it is absolutely essential.
