Hastings, Nebraska – A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from noon Friday through 6 a.m. Sunday for portions of north-central Kansas, with accumulating snow expected to impact travel through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, snowfall totals between 4 and 6 inches are expected across Jewell, Phillips, and Smith counties in Kansas. Communities including Phillipsburg, Smith Center, Mankato, Kensington, Jewell, and Burr Oak are included in the advisory.
Snow is expected to develop Friday afternoon and continue at times through Saturday night. Travel impacts are most likely from Friday night through Saturday afternoon, when roads may become snow-covered and slick. Bridges and overpasses are expected to be hazardous first.
Forecasters note that northeast winds may gust up to 20 mph Friday afternoon and evening, but winds are expected to weaken overnight into Saturday. This should limit widespread blowing and drifting snow, though reduced visibility is still possible during periods of steadier snowfall.
The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening commute, with continued travel difficulties expected into the weekend. Rural roads and secondary highways may be especially impacted due to slower clearing.
Residents are urged to slow down and use caution while traveling. Motorists should allow extra stopping distance, reduce speeds, and be prepared for changing road conditions.
Drivers can obtain the latest Kansas road conditions by calling 511. Officials recommend monitoring forecast updates in case snowfall totals or timing change.
Communities across north-central Kansas should plan for winter driving conditions through early Sunday morning.
