Little Rock, Arkansas —
One hundred sixty million Americans are prepared and monitoring what forecasters say is shaping up to be the largest snowstorm of the season, as winter storm warnings remain in effect across portions of Arkansas and Missouri through Monday, Jan. 26.
For this region, the first phase of the storm is expected to produce widespread snow, especially across northern Arkansas and southern and central Missouri. According to the National Weather Service, snowfall totals of 6 to 12 inches are likely across much of southern Missouri, with locally higher amounts possible north of the Interstate 44 corridor. Northern Arkansas could see significant accumulations as colder air deepens, particularly across higher terrain and areas near the Missouri border.
The National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center places the Arkansas–Missouri region within a moderate to high-confidence zone for impactful winter weather from Friday through Sunday. Snowfall rates may approach one inch per hour at times, sharply reducing visibility and creating hazardous travel conditions along major corridors, including Interstate 44, Interstate 49, Interstate 55, and U.S. Route 63.
Transportation officials warn that prolonged snowfall and falling temperatures could lead to icy road conditions, extended travel delays, and stranded vehicles, especially during overnight hours. Snow-covered highways and blowing snow may make travel unsafe or temporarily impossible during peak snowfall.
Residents are urged to complete storm preparations before conditions deteriorate, including stocking food, medications, and emergency supplies. Motorists are advised to avoid non-essential travel during periods of heavy snow and to monitor roadway conditions closely if travel cannot be postponed. Freight operators and commuters should expect disruptions that may last into early next week.
Behind the storm, a surge of Arctic air is forecast to settle across Arkansas, Missouri, and much of the central United States. Temperatures are expected to plunge well below seasonal averages, locking snowpack in place and prolonging hazardous conditions even after snowfall ends.
While a brief lull in snowfall is possible between Jan. 28 and Feb. 1, forecasters caution that the Midwest and East Coast will remain entrenched in a deep Arctic pattern into early February, limiting melting and extending winter impacts across the region.
