Lubbock, Texas – A significant winter storm is impacting West Texas, bringing freezing rain and sleet Friday before transitioning to accumulating snow later this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Lubbock, precipitation on Friday is expected to fall mainly as freezing rain and sleet, with the greatest ice accumulations occurring from Friday afternoon through Saturday morning. Forecasters say this period poses a high risk for slick roads, bridges, and overpasses across the South Plains and Rolling Plains.
The National Weather Service indicates a lull in precipitation is likely Saturday morning before activity intensifies again Saturday afternoon and evening. During that time, precipitation is expected to change to a wintry mix and then mostly snow by Saturday night.
Heavier snowfall is forecast to continue Saturday night into Sunday morning, with snow gradually tapering off later Sunday. Forecast graphics show several areas may receive multiple inches of snow, while ice accumulations from freezing rain could range from a few hundredths of an inch to more than a quarter inch in parts of the region.
Weather officials warn that the combination of ice and snow will likely lead to dangerous travel conditions throughout the weekend. Impacts may include icy roads, reduced visibility, and difficult driving conditions, especially overnight and during early morning hours.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, prepare for rapidly changing road conditions, and closely monitor updated forecasts as the storm evolves.
