Lawrence, Kansas – Drivers across northeast Kansas could encounter sudden whiteout bursts Sunday as wind gusts up to 60 mph whip falling snow, briefly cutting visibility to less than a quarter mile on open highways and rural roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Topeka, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Sunday for Douglas, Jefferson, Jackson, Brown, and Nemaha counties. Snow totals are expected to range between 1 and 2 inches, but the intense wind will blow snow across roadways, creating fast-changing driving conditions.
Communities including Lawrence, Holton, Hiawatha, Seneca, Oskaloosa, and Horton may see the most travel impacts during the afternoon and early evening. Open stretches of highways such as U.S. 59, U.S. 75, and Kansas Highway 10 could experience drifting snow and sudden crosswinds, especially outside city limits.
Blowing snow may briefly reduce visibility below ¼ mile, particularly in rural areas where fields allow wind to sweep snow across roads. Officials warn untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses could quickly become slick.
Drivers are urged to slow down and leave extra space between vehicles. Kansas travelers can check the latest conditions by calling 511 before heading out.
Snow and blowing snow should gradually ease later Sunday evening, but hazardous travel may continue until the advisory expires at 8 p.m., and additional updates could follow if strong winds persist.
