Poplar Bluff, Missouri – A strong signal for above-normal precipitation is emerging across parts of the Mid-South, particularly near the Missouri–Kentucky–Tennessee–Arkansas border region, increasing the risk for impactful weather between Tuesday and Saturday. With colder air also expected to be nearby, the type of precipitation could range from rain to snow or a wintry mix, depending on timing.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, areas near the Missouri Bootheel, western Kentucky, northwest Tennessee, and northeast Arkansas carry a 60–70% probability of above-normal precipitation during the January 20–24 period. At the same time, temperatures are trending toward below normal, increasing the potential for winter weather impacts if colder air is established when systems move through.
In southeast Missouri, including Poplar Bluff and Kennett, periods of moderate to heavy precipitation are possible, with colder nighttime temperatures raising concern for snow or ice. Western Kentucky communities near Paducah and Mayfield face a similar setup, where precipitation intensity could be high enough to cause travel disruptions regardless of precipitation type. Northwest Tennessee, including areas near Union City and Dyersburg, may also see accumulating precipitation with slick road conditions developing during overnight hours.
Farther south into northeast Arkansas, including Jonesboro and surrounding areas, precipitation is likely to fall primarily as rain at times, though colder periods could introduce brief wintry mixes. Major travel routes such as I-55, I-24, U.S. 60, and U.S. 412 could be impacted by reduced visibility, ponding, or slick surfaces, especially during heavier precipitation.
Residents across the border region are encouraged to prepare for periods of impactful weather by monitoring updates, planning for slower travel, and ensuring drainage systems remain clear. While exact precipitation type will depend on temperature timing, confidence is increasing that this corridor will see multiple rounds of precipitation during the Jan 20–24 window.
This active pattern is expected to persist through late week, and additional advisories or alerts may be issued as confidence in impacts and precipitation type increases.
