Jan 05, 2024

UPDATED: NWS meteorologist preview for Jan. 5 snow storm

Posted Jan 05, 2024 12:15 PM

UPDATED Thursday, Jan. 5, 8:44 a.m.

Winter Weather Today
Winter Weather Today

Snowfall will impact most parts of western and southern Kansas beginning on Thursday evening and carrying over into most of Friday.

Widespread snow will reach cities like Wichita, Hutchinson and Pratt by late Thursday, and periods of heavy snow will be possible across that region during the morning commute.

Precipitation Timing for Jan. 5 snow event.
Precipitation Timing for Jan. 5 snow event.

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Light to moderate snow, possibly mixed with light rain at times, is expected Thursday night through Friday. <b>Graphic courtesy Wichita NWS</b>
Light to moderate snow, possibly mixed with light rain at times, is expected Thursday night through Friday. Graphic courtesy Wichita NWS

By OLIVIA BERGMEIER
Salina Post

Most of Kansas has seen increased precipitation this winter, with much of it contributing to diminishing the drought conditions for many residents.

This Friday, another weather system will move into the state, bringing about an inch of snow to most parts of western and central Kansas.

According to Wichita National Weather Service, NWS, Meteorologist James Cuellar, Kansans have seen more snow this winter compared to past years.

"Last year we were in a La Niña, and that's why we were so dry the entire winter," Cuellar said. "We already had that big snow event in November, so that's pretty much already gotten out average for a lot of places."

Cuellar said Friday's weather system will move into the state late Thursday night into the early hours of Friday morning. Forecasted temperatures will drop overnight on Thursday from low 40s to high 30s, with a high of 41 degrees on Friday.

Mostly seasonable temperatures in the 30s and 40s through the weekend. Chances for snow increase Thursday night into Friday. <b>Graphic courtesy Wichita NWS</b>
Mostly seasonable temperatures in the 30s and 40s through the weekend. Chances for snow increase Thursday night into Friday. Graphic courtesy Wichita NWS

Most of western and north central Kansas may receive up to an inch of snow, while a wintery mix of rain and snow is more likely near the Kansas-Oklahoma border.

"Northeast Kansas will miss out a little bit on it, but they could still get at least a trace, a trace to an inch," Cuellar said.

The weather system will impact travelers on Friday morning, with roadways becoming slick from chillier precipitation across the state.

Elevated roadways like bridges and interchanges will be dangerous in adverse weather conditions.