A significant winter storm followed by a prolonged outbreak of Arctic cold is expected to impact the Central Plains and Midwest, affecting Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana from Thursday, January 22, through Sunday, January 26, according to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center.
Forecasters warn that the combination of heavy snow, dangerous wind chills, and extended freezing temperatures could lead to widespread travel disruptions, power outages, and life-threatening cold exposure across the region.
Snow and Winter Impacts Increasing Late Week
The storm system is forecast to move into the Central Plains late Friday, expanding eastward into the Midwest through the weekend.
- Kansas and Missouri are expected to see accumulating snow, especially across northern and central areas, with blowing snow reducing visibility as winds increase.
- Illinois and Indiana may experience moderate to heavy snowfall, particularly across northern and central portions of both states, creating hazardous travel conditions on interstates and local roads.
Snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and periods of blowing snow are expected to impact both evening and weekend travel, with conditions potentially worsening overnight.
Arctic Cold to Follow the Storm
Behind the winter system, bitterly cold Arctic air will surge southward, bringing well-below-normal temperatures through the weekend and into early next week.
- Overnight lows are expected to fall into the single digits and teens, with sub-zero wind chills likely across much of Kansas, northern Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana.
- Wind chills could drop well below zero at night, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, especially during the overnight and early morning hours.
In some locations, temperatures may remain below freezing for multiple consecutive days, increasing the risk of frozen pipes and infrastructure damage.
Travel, Power, and Safety Concerns
The combination of snow and extreme cold may result in dangerous travel conditions, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and rural highways. Gusty winds could also contribute to blowing snow and localized power outages.
Officials urge residents to prepare now, including:
- Limiting unnecessary travel during the storm
- Ensuring homes are winterized
- Checking on elderly neighbors and vulnerable populations
- Having emergency supplies ready in case of power disruptions
While exact snowfall totals remain uncertain, meteorologists stress that confidence is high in an impactful winter weather event across the Central Plains and Midwest.
Residents should continue to monitor forecast updates, as changes in storm track or temperature could significantly affect local conditions.
