Dodge City, KS – A powerful blizzard is set to impact central and western Kansas, with whiteout conditions and dangerously strong winds expected overnight into Wednesday afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for multiple counties, including Trego, Ellis, Scott, Lane, Ness, and Rush, from 1 a.m. to 1 p.m. CDT Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service, snow accumulations between 1 to 4 inches combined with gusts up to 70 mph will make travel extremely hazardous. Portions of Interstate 70, particularly in Trego and Ellis counties, will be affected by blowing snow and near-zero visibility. Motorists are advised to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
Further north and west, additional blizzard warnings cover Rawlins, Decatur, Norton, Thomas, Sheridan, Graham, Logan, and Gove counties, as well as parts of southwest Nebraska. These areas will see similar conditions, with up to 3 inches of snow and winds gusting to 65 mph. Whiteout conditions may cause tree damage and power outages.
The storm is expected to begin as rain late Tuesday before rapidly transitioning to snow overnight. Conditions will deteriorate quickly, with the worst impacts expected before sunrise Wednesday.
Officials urge residents to stay indoors, secure outdoor objects, and prepare for potential power disruptions. If travel is unavoidable, a winter survival kit is recommended, including food, water, and a flashlight.
For updated road conditions, dial 511 or check local transportation department websites.
