KANSAS CITY, MO – A major winter storm is set to blanket Missouri and Kansas with up to 14 inches of snow by early Wednesday morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning for much of the region, warning residents of hazardous travel conditions, potential power outages, and dangerously cold temperatures.
Storm Timeline & Snowfall Projections
🌨 Start Time: Snowfall is expected to begin late Monday evening, intensifying overnight.
🌨 Peak Intensity: The heaviest snowfall is forecasted from Tuesday afternoon through early Wednesday morning.
🌨 Expected Totals: Most areas will see 8 to 12 inches, with isolated areas receiving up to 14 inches.
🌨 End Time: The storm is expected to taper off by 6 AM Wednesday, though lingering snow showers are possible.
Major Cities Affected
📍 Kansas City, MO & KS – 8 to 12 inches
📍 Columbia, MO – 6 to 10 inches
📍 Topeka, KS – 7 to 11 inches
📍 Wichita, KS – 4 to 8 inches
Blowing snow and wind gusts up to 35 mph could create blizzard-like conditions, significantly reducing visibility.
Travel Impact & Road Conditions
🚧 Treacherous Roads: Expect snow-covered highways and icy conditions, making travel extremely dangerous.
🚧 Interstate Closures Possible: Major highways, including I-70 and I-35, may experience slowdowns or temporary shutdowns.
🚧 Flight Disruptions: Kansas City International Airport and regional airports may see delays or cancellations due to heavy snowfall.
Authorities are urging residents to stay home if possible and avoid unnecessary travel.
Power Outages & Safety Concerns
💡 Power Disruptions Possible – Heavy snow and ice accumulation on power lines could lead to outages.
🔥 Extreme Cold – Wind chills could drop below zero degrees, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
🏠 Stay Prepared – Have flashlights, blankets, and emergency supplies on hand in case of power failures.
School & Business Closures
❄ Many schools and workplaces are expected to close or transition to remote learning on Tuesday and Wednesday. Check with local officials for updates on closures in your area.
What You Should Do Now
✔ Prepare Your Home & Vehicle – Keep extra blankets, food, and emergency supplies handy.
✔ Charge Your Devices – Power outages are possible—keep phones and flashlights fully charged.
✔ Avoid Travel – If you must drive, keep extra water, warm clothing, and a winter emergency kit in your car.
✔ Check for Updates – Stay tuned to NWS alerts, local news, and emergency broadcasts.
This dangerous winter storm is expected to disrupt travel and daily life across Missouri and Kansas. Residents should take precautions now and stay off the roads if possible.
For real-time weather updates, visit the National Weather Service website or tune in to local news stations.