U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center (SPC) forecasters expect much of the United States to see severe winter weather, with multiple Kansas counties included in the winter weather watch and cold weather advisory.
Cloud County, alongside Clay, Riley, Pottawatomie, Jackson, Jefferson, Ottawa, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, Wabunsee, Shawnee and Douglas counties, is included in the winter storm watch that begins Friday evening and continues through Saturday night.
The region could see snow accumulation between 5 and 8 inches. NWS forecasters warn that this storm could impact highways and roads, especially bridges and overpasses.
Forecasters suggest that residents should delay any travel plans for the weekend, or if travel is absolutely necessary, then travel with a winter storm kit that includes tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets and extra clothing.
Additional items that should be included in the winter storm kit are water and first aid items.
Alongside the winter storm watch, NWS forecasters have issued a cold weather advisory for Cloud, Republic, Washington, Marshall, Nemaha, Brown, Clay, Riley, Pottawatomie and Jackson counties. The advisory will begin at 6 a.m. Friday morning and continue until noon on Sunday.
NWS meteorologists predict wind chills as low as 21 degrees below zero, which could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Forecasters suggest residents should use caution when going outside during this period and wear appropriate clothing like multiple layers, a hat and gloves.
