"Stay home": KC snow predictions rise ahead of winter storm
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Brace for snow, KC. Photo: Travis Meier/Axios
Kansas City is bracing for a serious winter storm starting Friday, with snowfall predictions increasing and freezing temperatures expected to last all weekend.
The big picture: What initially looked like a cold snap with a few flurries is shaping up to be a major arctic event with impacts lasting through next Wednesday, as of Thursday's forecasts.
State of play: A winter storm watch is in effect until late Saturday, with 5 to 7 inches of snow expected across the KC metro, per the National Weather Service.
- There's also a cold weather advisory from 12am to 12pm Saturday, with wind chills plummeting to as low as minus 20 degrees.
Threat level: Exposure to the dangerous wind chills could result in frostbite and hypothermia, the National Weather Service says, so bundle up. You should also expect difficult travel.
What they're saying: "If it's not necessary to travel, please avoid it," Cpl. Justin Ewing with the Missouri State Highway Patrol said on social media. "If it's not necessary or an emergency, please stay home and stay safe."
Zoom in: Previous forecasts predicted a 30% to 40% chance of 3 to 5 inches of snow. Precipitation is now 80% likely.
- Saturday should have the most snowfall and the coldest temps, the perfect excuse to do nothing all day.
- Forecasts predict temperatures near or below freezing through Wednesday, meaning the snow will stick around.
The bottom line: Stock up and hunker down — it looks like we're in for a doozy.
Go deeper: How to stay safe during a winter storm