Wichita, Kansas – Drivers along Interstate 70 in central Kansas have a narrow window overnight before snow-covered pavement and reduced visibility make travel hazardous through 6 a.m. Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wichita, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for Barton, Ellsworth, Lincoln, Russell and Saline counties until 6 a.m. Snow totals are expected to range from 1 to 2 inches, with isolated spots possibly picking up slightly higher amounts under heavier bands.
Salina, Great Bend, Russell and Ellsworth are already reporting light snow, and untreated bridges and overpasses along I-70 are becoming slick. Even minor accumulation can quickly freeze on elevated roadways, increasing the risk of spinouts during the late-night and early-morning hours.
Local law enforcement and the Kansas Department of Transportation urge drivers to reduce speed, increase following distance and avoid sudden braking. If you must travel before sunrise Saturday, check road conditions by calling 511 and allow extra time to reach your destination.
Snow should taper off toward daybreak Saturday, but patchy icy spots may linger beyond 6 a.m., especially on secondary roads. Additional advisories are not expected, though crews will continue monitoring conditions through the morning commute.
